The government has removed approximately 2.25 crore ineligible beneficiaries from the free monthly ration scheme over the past four to five months, a senior Food Ministry official confirmed on November 18, 2025. The exercise aims to ensure that the scheme benefits only those who truly need it. Under the National Food Security Act, poor households are entitled to five kilograms of free foodgrains per month, including wheat and rice, to provide them with regular sustenance.
Who Was Removed and Why
Many of the removed beneficiaries were unintended recipients, including individuals owning four-wheelers, holding company directorships, or earning above the set income threshold. Some had also passed away. Food Secretary Sanjeev Chopra explained that the exercise ensures better targeting of rightful beneficiaries, while state governments are concurrently adding eligible recipients to the list.
Process of Identification and Verification
The Department of Food and Public Distribution at the Centre identified ineligible beneficiaries and shared the list with state governments for verification and deletion. This continuous process ensures that only qualified individuals remain under the scheme while new eligible beneficiaries are added as determined by state authorities.
Scope and Coverage of the NFSA
The National Food Security Act, passed in 2013, aims to cover up to 75 percent of the rural population and 50 percent of the urban population, amounting to about two-thirds of India’s population, or roughly 81.35 crore people based on the 2011 Census. Beneficiaries fall under two categories: Antyodaya Anna Yojana households, which receive 35 kilograms per household per month, and priority households, which receive five kilograms per person per month.Ration Infrastructure and Current Status
Currently, there are over 19 crore ration card holders across India, supported by around 5 lakh fair price shops in all states and union territories. In July, the Centre informed Parliament that while the intended coverage was 81.35 crore people, states and union territories had identified 80.56 crore, leaving a potential of 0.79 crore more eligible beneficiaries to be added.
