Tamil Nadu to Disable PDS Cards If Rations Not Purchased in Six Months

The Tamil Nadu government has introduced a new rule that will deactivate Public Distribution System (PDS) cards if beneficiaries fail to purchase any ration within the last six months. The directive, issued by the state’s Food and Civil Supplies Department, is part of an effort to reduce wastage and ensure that subsidised food grains reach those who truly need them.

Under the new policy, PDS cardholders will receive a notice if their card has been inactive for six months. They will be given a short window to resume purchases before the card is permanently disabled. The government has stated that the measure will be monitored closely to avoid any undue hardship on genuine beneficiaries.

Officials say the change will help streamline the ration distribution system and prevent the accumulation of unused grain stocks. The move has been welcomed by some welfare groups, though concerns remain about how the policy will be implemented in rural areas where access to distribution centers can be limited.