Food and Civil Supplies Minister Comingone Ymbon has expressed concern over the state’s poor performance in Aadhaar seeding under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), even as the central deadline of June 30 looms closer.
Speaking to the media, Ymbon revealed that despite efforts made over the past two years, only 53 percent of NFSA beneficiaries in Meghalaya have completed their eKYC. Of the total 21,45,105 beneficiaries, 11,42,992 have linked their Aadhaar with the ration database.
“There has been slight improvement – earlier it was just 21 percent and now it has gone up to 53 percent. But this is still far below the national average, where other states have already crossed 90 percent,” he said.
The minister highlighted that the lowest percentage of Aadhaar seeding has been recorded in West Khasi Hills, South West Khasi Hills, and Eastern West Khasi Hills, urging citizens from these districts in particular to come forward and complete the process.
Ymbon also warned against misinformation being spread regarding Aadhaar linking, calling on those responsible to stop misleading the public. “When families miss out on ration rice due to failure to complete eKYC, those who spread misinformation should take responsibility. I have done my best to reach out through MLAs and the media,” he stated.
The state government has launched a mission mode initiative to accelerate the seeding process, aiming to achieve the 90 percent mark before the deadline.
“As the minister, I once again urge citizens not to fall into the trap of false information. In order to ensure uninterrupted access to subsidised food grains, please come forward and complete the Aadhaar seeding by June 30,” he appealed.
