Less than 50 per cent of Meghalaya’s National Food Security Act (NFSA) beneficiaries have linked their ration cards to the Aadhaar system, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Comingone Ymbon informed today.
He said this during the launch by the state government of a mission mode project on Aadhaar seeding of NFSA beneficiaries. The initiative aims to complete 100 per cent linkage by June 30, aligning with the central government’s directive.
Only 10.64 lakh (48.77 per cent) of the state’s 21 lakh NFSA beneficiaries have completed Aadhaar seeding, Ymbon said. “That leaves nearly 11 lakh beneficiaries to be covered in the next 84 days,” he said.
With time ticking and more than half the beneficiaries yet to link their Aadhaar, Ymbon warned that non-compliance would mean that existing beneficiaries will be denied their entitlements.
The minister stressed that Aadhaar linkage is vital to eliminate duplication, remove ghost beneficiaries and ensure that food grains reach the most deserving, especially farmers, daily wage earners and mothers in rural and urban areas. “This is not a state scheme. It is a central government initiative aimed at accountability and transparency,” he added, warning that non-compliance could result in reduced rice allocations from the Centre.
To meet the target, a structured action plan has been rolled out. Deputy Commissioners, Sub-Divisional Officers and Block Development Officers have been tasked with spearheading the drive on the ground, while community leaders are expected to play a vital role in grassroots mobilisation.
Additionally, over 4,500 fair price shops (FPSs) across the state will function as Aadhaar enrolment and seeding centres. A state-wide awareness campaign is being launched using radio, mobile vans, hoardings, pamphlets and public meetings to ensure broad public participation.
When asked about concerns over chaotic scenes at FPS outlets, Ymbon assured that local administrators have been instructed to facilitate smooth and hassle-free seeding. On issues raised over poor connectivity in rural areas, he countered, “Even in remote areas, internet services are available.”
He also responded to complaints about non-functional e-POS (electronic point of sale) machines, urging citizens to report such issues promptly. “If they’re not working, complain to us. The office will take necessary action,” he said.
On the “One Nation, One Ration Card” initiative, Ymbon reiterated Meghalaya’s commitment to full implementation, despite current hurdles. He acknowledged that low awareness, particularly in areas like West Khasi Hills, has slowed the Aadhaar seeding process. “We are ramping up publicity efforts through radio, TV and local media,” he said.
