Delhi Cancels Over 7.7 Lakh Ration Cards Amid Major Eligibility Changes

The Delhi government has cancelled more than 7.7 lakh ration cards following a large-scale verification drive under the Public Distribution System (PDS). The move comes as part of efforts to identify “invalid” beneficiaries and improve transparency in the distribution of subsidised food grains across the national capital.

According to officials, the cancelled cards were found to be inactive, duplicated, or ineligible during a detailed audit process. The government believes the clean-up exercise will strengthen the efficiency of the food subsidy system and ensure that benefits reach genuinely eligible families.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also announced plans to increase the annual income eligibility limit for obtaining ration cards from ₹1.2 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh. The proposed revision is expected to expand access to subsidised food benefits for low- and middle-income households facing rising living costs.

The decision is likely to impact thousands of families who rely on the public distribution system for essential food supplies. Government authorities stated that the updated eligibility norms are aimed at improving social welfare coverage while maintaining stricter beneficiary verification procedures.

Experts believe the move could help reduce leakages in the system and improve the management of food security schemes in Delhi. However, concerns have also emerged regarding genuine beneficiaries who may face temporary disruptions during the verification process.

Officials have assured that eligible citizens will be able to apply under the revised income criteria once the updated policy is implemented. The government is also expected to continue digitisation and monitoring efforts to improve transparency in welfare delivery.