Notices served to over 3.19 lakh suspected ineligible NFSA beneficiaries in Surat

Surat: The Gujarat government’s Food and Civil Supplies Department has prepared a list of suspected beneficiaries who may not be eligible for ration supply under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013. According to the list sent to the supply officers of each district, a total of 3,19,339 beneficiaries in the city and district have been served notices, with an ultimatum to provide written explanations within seven days.

Among them, 846 beneficiaries, or at least one member of their family, hold a GST TIN and have an annual turnover exceeding ₹25 lakh. Notices have been issued to such families, requesting written clarifications.

This move has created a stir among those allegedly receiving Public Distribution System (PDS) benefits unlawfully. Once the written explanations are received, a taluka-level committee will decide whether the suspected beneficiaries will continue to receive government grain.

Under NFSA, families living below the poverty line are entitled to ration via the Public Distribution System at affordable prices. Families with an annual income exceeding ₹2.40 lakh are not eligible for NFSA benefits, and authorities have now taken steps to enforce this rule strictly.

Category-wise breakdown of suspected ineligible beneficiaries:

• Annual income above ₹6 lakh: 43,949 beneficiaries

• Holders of GST TIN: 846 beneficiaries

• PM-Kisan scheme beneficiaries: 1,25,008 beneficiaries

• Government officials or officeholders: 1,914 beneficiaries

• Holders of ration cards in other states: 158 beneficiaries

• Age above 100 years: 893 beneficiaries

• Silent for 6 or 12 months: 9,127 beneficiaries