Srinagar, May 06: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered the inclusion of children aged six years and above, as well as left-out eligible individuals, into the Public Distribution System (PDS), ensuring access to subsidized food grains under various ration categories.
As per the latest directive children attaining the age of six will now be automatically included in their respective family ration cards — be it AAY (Antyodaya Anna Yojana), PHH (Priority Households), or NPHH (Non-Priority Households), depending on their family’s classification under the scheme.
Additionally, any eligible beneficiary who has so far been left out of the PDS coverage will now be considered for inclusion as per the prevailing norms.
The order also includes a major relief for destitute women. In cases where widows or divorcees are not currently covered under the PDS, the Department of Food Supplies and Consumer Affairs will provide them with separate ration cards based on their financial status and eligibility under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). They may be included under PHH, NPHH, or the Exclusion category, accordingly.
Calling it a “great decision,” Minister for CAPD Satish Sharma said another great decision by Omar Abdullah lead Government, for inclusion of children of six years of age and also destitute women (Widows/Divorced) under Public Distribution System.
The order is expected to benefit thousands of families across the Union Territory.
