Bhubaneswar, 25 February (H.S.): The Odisha government has announced a stringent verification process for ration card holders, including those who have filed income tax returns. Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra made this announcement on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters in Bhubaneswar, Minister Patra addressed concerns regarding the cancellation of ration cards for individuals who filed income tax returns. He clarified that a physical verification would be conducted with door-to-door inspections by officials. Poor families will continue to receive ration cards, and ineligible names will be removed, he assured.

The Minister further explained that households with incomes exceeding Rs 10,000 per month in rural areas and Rs 15,000 per month in urban areas could face ration card cancellations.

He emphasized that dedicated officials would ensure the verification process is thorough, fair, and accurate, protecting the rights of eligible families in the state.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda