Assam: The Assam government has initiated the distribution of new ration cards, covering 49 newly delimitated assembly constituencies, as part of its effort to enhance social security and inclusivity. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched the first phase of the initiative on Sunday, underscoring the administration’s commitment to supporting vulnerable sections of society.
Participating in the launch events in Jalukbari and Central Guwahati constituencies, Sarma highlighted the importance of ensuring food security. He announced that by December, each beneficiary would receive 5 kg of free rice, reaffirming the state’s commitment to addressing food needs. The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) described the initiative as part of the government’s broader vision of building an inclusive and prosperous society.
Sarma disclosed that the government had decided in September to provide new ration cards to 20 lakh beneficiaries. “Today, we are giving new ration cards to 7 lakh beneficiaries. By December 28, about 18-19 lakh new beneficiaries will be covered,” he stated. The cards, now linked to Aadhaar numbers, will enable access to additional benefits, such as medical insurance and subsidised LPG cylinders, eventually evolving into a comprehensive family identity document.
In a significant development, the government is considering providing pulses and sugar through ration cards to stabilise prices during market spikes. Sarma said he had instructed Food and Civil Supplies Minister Kaushik Rai to study the implementation of similar schemes in other states, such as Uttar Pradesh, Tripura, Kerala, and Himachal Pradesh. “We haven’t tried it in Assam so far, but it could help in price stabilisation,” Sarma explained.
The Chief Minister also praised the ‘One Nation, One Ration Card’ (ONORC) initiative, calling it a groundbreaking effort by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He highlighted its benefits, noting that families living in different locations could access their entitlements seamlessly through a centrally governed Aadhaar-enabled system.
As part of the government’s ’12 Days of Development’ initiative, the ration card distribution will benefit an estimated 12 lakh people. Sarma said the scheme, which is expected to cover two-thirds of the state’s population, integrates multiple benefits, including free foodgrains, healthcare, subsidised LPG, and insurance, along with assistance under the Orunodoi scheme.
Sharing a poignant moment from the event, Sarma highlighted the inclusion of differently-abled individuals in the scheme. “Karishma Kashyap is among the 40 divyang brothers and sisters who have been given ration cards today, assuring them of free healthcare and foodgrains,” he posted on X, alongside a photograph of a wheelchair-bound beneficiary receiving her card.
The Chief Minister concluded by reiterating the government’s dedication to the principles of Antyodaya, ensuring the upliftment of the poorest and most marginalised sections of society.