Free Foodgrains for Eligible Beneficiaries in 10 Drought-Hit Talukas of Pune
Migrants can collect ration from any convenient fair-price shop under One Nation, One Ration Card scheme
Pune : The Pune district administration has initiated measures to ensure the uninterrupted supply of free foodgrains to eligible beneficiaries in 10 drought-affected talukas of the district. People migrating in search of employment or water due to drought conditions will also be able to collect their entitled foodgrains from any convenient fair-price shop, officials said.
District Supply Officer Mahesh Sudhalkar said the administration was taking steps to ensure that no eligible family was deprived of its entitled foodgrains because of drought-related difficulties or migration.
The state government has declared drought in 304 talukas for the 2026 kharif season, citing deficient rainfall and other factors during June to September 2026. Accordingly, the state Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection Department has issued guidelines for foodgrain distribution to eligible beneficiaries.
Priority for Eligible Beneficiaries
Under the National Food Security Act, 2013, eligible beneficiaries must receive free foodgrains without delay or disruption.
Individuals in drought-affected talukas who are not currently covered under the National Food Security Scheme may also seek inclusion in the Antyodaya Anna Yojana or Priority Household category. Their eligibility will be assessed according to prescribed criteria, income limits and the availability of beneficiary quotas.
Authorities have been instructed to complete Aadhaar seeding for all members listed on the ration card and ensure that eligible beneficiaries receive foodgrains promptly.
Migrants Can Access Ration Anywhere
The administration is implementing the portability facility under the One Nation, One Ration Card scheme to assist agricultural labourers and other residents who migrate in search of work or water.
Beneficiaries can collect their entitled foodgrains from a fair-price shop other than their regular outlet by verifying their identity biometrically through electronic Point of Sale (e-PoS) devices.
Officials have been directed to ensure that migration does not deprive eligible families of their food security benefits.
Focus on Ration Cards and Transparency
Under Mission Sudhar, authorities have been instructed to consider available quotas arising from cancelled ration cards and issue new cards to eligible beneficiaries in drought-affected areas.
Officials have also been asked to plan foodgrain procurement and distribution in advance to complete the process within the prescribed deadlines.
The government has stressed strict monitoring to prevent the black marketing, illegal stockpiling and other malpractices involving foodgrains, ensuring that assistance reaches those who need it most.
