Dakshina Kannada Committee Urges State to Issue Ration Cards for Eligible Families
The Dakshina Kannada District Guarantee Schemes Implementation Committee, under the leadership of chairman Bharath Mundodi, has announced a significant push to urge the state government to issue ration cards to eligible families in the district. This initiative was highlighted during a district-level implementation progress review meeting held at the Dakshina Kannada zilla panchayat on Wednesday, where key issues and solutions were discussed to enhance the effectiveness of government guarantee schemes.
Ration Cards as a Gateway to Government Benefits
During the meeting, Bharath Mundodi emphasized the critical importance of ration cards for accessing benefits under various government schemes. He pointed out that a substantial number of eligible beneficiaries in Dakshina Kannada district are currently waiting for their ration cards, which are essential for availing of social welfare programs. "Ration cards are essential to access benefits under various government schemes. However, as additional cards have already been issued at the state level, there is currently no provision to issue new ration cards," Mundodi stated.
To address this gap, the committee has decided to write to the state government, seeking permission to conduct a comprehensive survey across the entire state. This survey aims to identify newly eligible beneficiaries and facilitate the distribution of ration cards to them, ensuring that no deserving family is left out of essential government support.
Ensuring Efficiency and Accountability in Scheme Implementation
Mundodi further stressed that only eligible beneficiaries should take advantage of the guarantee schemes, calling for all departments to work efficiently to resolve people's issues. This directive underscores the committee's commitment to transparency and effective governance, aiming to streamline processes and eliminate any bottlenecks in the implementation of these schemes.
Addressing Local Issues: Electricity Theft and Infrastructure Delays
In addition to the ration card issue, the meeting also addressed other pressing concerns in the district. Shahul Hameed, chairman of the Sullia Taluk Guarantee Schemes Committee, raised the issue of electricity theft in the Sullia area, which has been occurring for seven years, with fines imposed only for a year. In response, Mundodi instructed Mescom officials to conduct a thorough investigation and take appropriate action to curb this malpractice.
Furthermore, the commissioning of the Elathur 33/11 KV substation was discussed, with Mundodi noting that approval from the department of electrical inspectorate is pending. He assured that steps will be taken to commission the substation immediately, highlighting efforts to improve infrastructure and service delivery in the region.
Progress Under the Gruhalakshmi Scheme
Officials from the department of women and child development provided an update on the Gruhalakshmi Scheme, reporting that from January 24 to February 20, 222 beneficiaries were registered. The total number of beneficiaries registered under this scheme so far has reached 3,80,630, demonstrating significant outreach and impact in supporting women and children through government initiatives.
Overall, the meeting reinforced the committee's proactive approach in addressing key challenges and enhancing the implementation of guarantee schemes in Dakshina Kannada district, with a focus on inclusivity and efficiency.
