Farooq Tantary cni

Srinagar, -CNI-:-In a significant move to enhance food security and inclusivity, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir has issued a new directive to broaden the scope of its Public Distribution System (PDS). As per Government Order No. 34-JK(FCS&CA) of 2025, dated May 5, 2025, children aged six years and above, as well as left-out eligible beneficiaries, will now be included under the AAY, PHH, NPHH, and Exclusion categories of ration card holders.
The order, issued by the Department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, follows up on a previous directive (Order No. 47-JK(FCS&CA) of 2024, dated August 14, 2024), and marks a continued effort to ensure no citizen is left out of the essential food distribution network.
Key highlights of the order include:Inclusion of Children: Children who are six years old or who attain the age of six will now be eligible to be added to their family’s ration card, depending on their category (AAY, PHH, NPHH, or Exclusion).Coverage of Left-out Beneficiaries: Any eligible person not previously covered under PDS will be included, provided they meet the set norms. Support for Widows and Divorcees: Widows and divorcees not currently covered under PDS can be issued a separate ration card based on financial status and compliance with National Food Security Act (NFSA) guidelines. This applies to the PHH, NPHH, and Exclusion categories.(CNI)