Bhubaneswar, Feb 15: The Odisha government has extended the deadline for ration card holders to update their e-KYC under the food security program until March 31, 2025.
The announcement was made on Saturday by Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra, who explained that the extension was in response to difficulties faced by people in remote areas due to poor network coverage.
“More than 30 lakh people have not updated their e-KYC because of network issues. With the new deadline, they will have additional time to complete the process and continue receiving benefits,” Patra said.
Around 90% of beneficiaries have already completed their e-KYC, and many have returned their ration cards. To improve network coverage, new devices will be installed at Public Distribution System (PDS) points within the next 2-4 days.
"More than 30 lakh people have been unable to update their e-KYC due to network errors in some remote areas. The deadline extension will allow beneficiaries to complete the e-KYC verification and receive benefits under food security schemes," Patra added.
Patra further stated that efforts are being made to enhance network coverage, with new devices being set up at 341 locations across the state. Currently, 230 areas have no network, and 111 areas are experiencing slow internet speeds.
The Minister also urged ineligible beneficiaries to surrender their ration cards to avoid any legal consequences.
