Barpeta (Assam): A total of 15,264 new ration cards were distributed to residents of Barpeta in Assam on Saturday, under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013.
The official event took place in the Barpeta Legislative Assembly Constituency (LAC), with Minister Nandita Garlosa, District Commissioner Rohan Kumar Jha, and other senior officials present to oversee the distribution process.
Minister Garlosa addressed the beneficiaries, explaining how they could make use of their new ration cards to access essential services.
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She also urged the public to promptly report any irregularities in the distribution process to the District Administration, ensuring that everyone receives the benefits they are entitled to.
“It is crucial that no individual is deprived of their rights,” she asserted.
The ration card distribution drive, which began in September and concluded in December, has benefited over 65,000 residents across Barpeta District.
In the 24 No. Barpeta LAC alone, 3,361 new ration cards were issued, covering 15,011 people.
Similar distribution events were held in other parts of the district, including Mandia, Pakabetbari, and Chenga LACs.
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These areas saw 3,201, 3,212, and 3,224 new cards issued, respectively, while 2,266 cards were distributed in the Bhawanipur-Sorbhog section of Barpeta.
In addition to receiving ration cards, beneficiaries will also gain access to free medical treatment worth up to Rs 5 lakh under the Ayushman Bharat and Ayushman Assam schemes.
Families lacking an LPG connection will benefit from the Ujjwala scheme, which provides free cooking gas connections.
To enhance transparency and prevent fraudulent claims, the Assam Government has integrated the distribution of ration cards with the Orunodoi scheme starting in 2024.
A valid ration card will now be necessary to avail of benefits under the scheme, ensuring a more efficient and accountable process.