Delay in NFSA Verification Leaves Thousands Without Ration in Kotputli

National Food Security Scheme Faces Challenges

In Kotputli, the National Food Security Act (NFSA), aimed at providing affordable ration to the needy, is currently under scrutiny, not for its benefits but due to significant delays. While the initiative intends to connect eligible beneficiaries with subsidized food, many applications from qualified individuals remain pending at various administrative levels, preventing them from accessing the essential ration.

Verification Issues Hinder Beneficiary Enrollment

A lack of timely verification at official levels has resulted in eligible individuals not being enrolled in the scheme. As of October 9, a total of 9,134 applications were submitted in the district for inclusion in the NFSA. However, due to bureaucratic delays, many of these applications remain unprocessed, leaving numerous hopeful beneficiaries in limbo. Additionally, many applicants are still outside the scheme due to pending KYC processes.

Highest Pending Applications in Neemrana Birdod

Among the applicants seeking to join the food security scheme, the Neemrana Birdod block has the highest number of pending applications, totaling 364. Other areas, such as Banasur and Narayanpur, have 184 and 172 pending applications, respectively. Furthermore, 772 applications were returned in Banasur due to deficiencies.

Verification Process Stalled

To facilitate the enrollment of eligible individuals, the government established three-tier committees responsible for verification before names could be added to the scheme. In urban areas, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) holds the final approval authority, while in rural regions, this responsibility lies with the Development Officer. Unfortunately, the slow pace of verification and approval has resulted in many applications not being processed, leaving a significant number of eligible individuals without access to the scheme.

‘Give-Up Campaign’ Provides Relief

The Rajasthan government has not increased the food quota under the scheme, prompting the launch of a 'Give-Up Campaign' encouraging ineligible individuals to withdraw from the program. In the Kotputli-Bahrod district, 75,165 individuals voluntarily opted out, allowing for the inclusion of new eligible beneficiaries. Following persistent requests from local representatives and social organizations, the government reopened the portal for enrollment after a long hiatus, enabling eligible individuals to join the scheme.

Voices from the Ground

Currently, 1,117 applications remain unapproved at various levels, preventing these individuals from joining the food security scheme. Once the verification process is completed, they will be added to the NFSA. Additionally, many eligible individuals are still excluded due to incomplete KYC processes.

Official Statement

• Shashi Shekhar Sharma, District Supply Officer, Kotputli-Bahrod