Govt staff told to surrender ration cards – deadline nears

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 16, 2025

Government employees across several districts in Meghalaya have been directed to surrender their National Food Security Act (NFSA) ration cards, as they are not eligible to receive subsidized food grains under the scheme. The move is part of a state-wide effort to streamline the Public Distribution System (PDS) and ensure benefits reach only the genuinely deserving families.

In West Jaintia Hills, the Office of the Deputy Commissioner (Supply) had set a deadline of April 15, 2025, for surrendering AAY or PHH ration cards under NFSA. The directive was issued in line with instructions from the Government of India.

In East Khasi Hills, Pynursla, Sohra, and now Amlarem Civil Sub-Division, the deadline for surrendering ration cards is April 30, 2025. Government employees, including Deficit and Adhoc teachers in both urban and rural areas, are covered under this directive.

According to the Office of the Sub-Divisional Officer (Supply), Amlarem, government employees are not entitled to hold ration cards under NFSA 2013, and continuing to do so may deprive eligible families—such as daily wage earners, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups—of vital support. The office has urged all concerned employees to submit their ration cards before the deadline. Non-compliance will be dealt with as per government rules.

Officials reiterated that many ration cards were issued based on the 2011 Socio-Economic and Caste Census, and several cardholders have since become ineligible due to changes in employment status.