Delhi Govt Raises Ration Card Income Limit to Rs2.5 Lakh; Over 7.7 Lakh Cards Cancelled

The Delhi government has announced a major change in ration card eligibility rules by increasing the annual income limit to Rs 2.5 lakh.

The decision aims to expand access to subsidised food benefits and bring more low-income families under the Public Distribution System (PDS).

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that the move is intended to ensure wider food security coverage for deserving residents in the national capital.

Alongside the revised income criteria, the government has cancelled around 7.72 lakh ration cards identified as invalid during a large-scale verification and audit process.

Officials said the exercise was carried out to remove ineligible beneficiaries and improve transparency in the distribution system.

According to the audit findings, thousands of beneficiaries were removed due to issues such as income mismatches, duplicate entries, inactive usage, and records of deceased beneficiaries.

The government stated that these changes are intended to ensure that food subsidies reach people who genuinely need assistance.

Fresh applications for ration cards will now be accepted online, allowing eligible families to apply under the revised rules.

Officials also indicated that the proposed income limit increase will be formally approved in an upcoming cabinet meeting.