Silvester D'Souza

Daijiworld Media Network - Kundapur

Kundapur, Nov 17: Food and Civil Supplies Minister K H Muniyappa assured that no ration cards would be cancelled amid the ongoing revision of BPL (below poverty line) cards in the state.

Speaking at an event in Kundapura on Sunday, November 17, where 14 Koraga families received newly built homes through the Heggundjebarajiva Shetty Charitable Trust, Muniyappa clarified that while certain guidelines were being followed to update the cards, every eligible person would continue receiving their rations.

The minister explained that under the new system, those paying income tax or leading an affluent lifestyle would have their BPL cards reclassified as APL (Above Poverty Line). However, he stressed that "no one will lose their ration card," reassuring the public that the process is intended only to eliminate ineligible cards.

Addressing concerns raised by journalists regarding income tax certificates for loans, Muniyappa confirmed that genuine beneficiaries would receive the BPL cards after necessary revisions. He further emphasised that the government would prioritise health services, with new cards being issued within a week for those in need.

Karnataka currently has over 80% of its population under the BPL category, a stark contrast to other southern states with around 50%. Out of the 2.95 lac BPL cards, 2.6 lac have already been revised. Minister Muniyappa assured that the remaining 35,000 cards would be updated soon, and new cards would be issued to eligible beneficiaries thereafter.

The minister reassured that the government would ensure smooth distribution without any issues for the public in the future.