No More Ration Shop Closures: 7.3 Million Cardholders to Benefit as Distributors Must Appoint Substitutes and Shops Stay Open

The Gujarat government has made a significant decision for the 7.3 million NFSA (National Food Security Act) cardholders in the state. From now on, cardholders will not encounter closed ration shops when they go to collect their subsidized grains. The government took this decision in response to complaints about ration shops being closed. 

According to the new directive, ration distributors must appoint a substitute in their absence, similar to government officials. This change aims to ensure that ration cardholders do not face any inconvenience due to shop closures.

Responsibility for Ration Shop Substitution During Distributor’s Absence

Ration distributors will now need to inform the District Supply Officer whenever they leave the shop. They must also notify the authorities about who will manage the shop in their absence. 

It is noteworthy that there are 700 registered shops for distributing subsidized grains across the state.

Shop Hours for Ration Distribution

Ration shops will be open from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM and from 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM. They will remain closed on Mondays and public holidays.

Free Distribution of 25 Kilos of Grain to Priority Households

Under the state government’s initiative, approximately 6.6 million “Priority Households” (P.H.H.)—a total population of 32.3 crore—will receive 5 kilos of grain per person, including 2 kilos of wheat, 2 kilos of rice, and 1 kilo of millet. For a household of five people, this translates to a total distribution of 10 kilos of wheat, 10 kilos of rice, and 5 kilos of millet, amounting to 25 kilos of free grain.

Additionally, under the state government’s scheme and the NFSA-2013, each household categorized under Antyodaya and Priority Households will receive protein-rich food items. This includes 1 kilo of chickpeas at a relief rate of Rs. 30 per kilo and 1 kilo of pigeon peas at a relief rate of Rs. 50 per kilo. Salt is also distributed at a relief rate of Rs. 1 per kilo.