Centre Confirms No Reduction of NFSA Beneficiaries in Punjab, Requests Eligibility Recheck

Food Minister Pralhad Joshi clarified that the Centre has not removed any beneficiaries from Punjab's approved 1.41 crore under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). Instead, the state was asked to verify beneficiaries based on inclusion criteria to ensure deserving individuals receive benefits. This statement followed Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's claim that the BJP-led Centre wants to remove over eight lakh ration card holders in the state.

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Mann stated that his government received a report from the Centre suggesting the removal of 8,02,493 ration card holders in Punjab, claiming they are no longer eligible. He assured that his government would not permit the deletion of any ration cards. Mann highlighted that Punjab has 1.53 crore beneficiaries under NFSA who receive wheat and emphasised the AAP government's commitment to supporting the poor.

Centre's Role and State Responsibility

Joshi explained that under NFSA 2013, state governments are responsible for identifying eligible beneficiaries based on their own criteria. The central government does not play a role in this process. The Centre only requested a recheck of beneficiaries using Punjab's inclusion criteria to potentially add deserving individuals who were previously excluded.

The minister stressed that all 1.41 crore beneficiaries will continue receiving free food grains. He also mentioned that Punjab has been given multiple extensions to complete the mandatory eKYC process directed by the Supreme Court. Joshi urged Mann to understand these facts correctly.

eKYC Process and Extensions

Joshi highlighted that the Supreme Court mandated eKYC for beneficiaries, and the Centre is simply asking states to implement it. Punjab has been granted several extensions to finish this process. The aim is to ensure that all deserving claimants benefit from the scheme without any eligible person being left out.

Mann's comments came during a media briefing in Chandigarh, where he reiterated his stance against removing any ration card holders. He criticised the Centre's report suggesting deletions and reaffirmed his government's dedication to protecting the interests of Punjab's poor population.

The ongoing dialogue between the Centre and Punjab highlights differing perspectives on beneficiary verification under NFSA. While Joshi emphasises compliance with Supreme Court directives and inclusion criteria, Mann focuses on safeguarding existing beneficiaries' rights.

With inputs from PTI