The government has now tightened its grip to curb the growing irregularities and fraud in the Public Distribution System (PDS). Following the latest changes to the ration card rules, only those truly in need will be able to access free rations. The government has made it clear that those who do not fulfill the eligibility conditions or who have obtained the card by giving wrong information, their ration card will be cancelled immediately. Understand in Amar Ujala's reporter style what are those new rules and how you can keep your ration card safe. Aadhaar linking and e-KYC now 'Brahmastra' The government has made Aadhaar seeding and e-KYC completely mandatory to eliminate fake and duplicate cards.

Last chance: Cardholders who have not yet completed e-KYC of all family members, their names are being removed from the ration list. Biometric verification: Now ration will not be available by just going to the ration dealer and putting thumb impression, rather the data of each family member must match with Aadhaar. Ration card of these people will be cancelled: Check your eligibility The government has issued clear guidelines as to who should surrender their ration card.

If you are found ineligible during the investigation, the ration you have already received can be recovered from you:

Income Tax Payer: If any member of the family pays income tax.

Government Employee: Central or State Government employees and high pensioners.

Property Details: If you own a plot, flat, or a luxurious house larger than 100 square meters in the city.

Four-Wheeler Vehicle: If the family owns a car, tractor, or any commercial vehicle.

Income Limit: If your annual income is above the poverty line limit set by your state.

What to do to keep your ration card safe?

If you are eligible and want to ensure your free ration is not stopped, follow these 4 steps immediately:

Keep only one card: If you have more than one active ration card (duplicate card) in your name, surrender one immediately.

Update Details: In case of death or marriage of someone in the family, get their information removed or added to the ration card.

Check Status: Check your 'Ration Card Status' from time to time by visiting the official website of the Food Department (NFSA portal).

Keep checking. e-KYC Center: Visit the nearest Public Service Center (CSC) or quota shop to update your e-KYC immediately.

Other important government schemes of the day:

Scheme: Key benefits:

Atal Pension Yojana: Guaranteed pension of up to ₹5,000 after the age of 60, invest today.

PM Ujjwala Yojana: Application process begins for free gas connection and ₹300 subsidy.

Government's resolve: Benefits reach 'Antyodaya' The government's main objective is to stop the black marketing of ration under the 'National Food Security Act'.

In states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh, a large-scale door-to-door verification campaign is being carried out to identify ineligible people. Officials say that removing ineligible people will provide space to the poor who are on the waiting list.