SHILLONG, APR 4: With just 84 days remaining before the Government of India’s final deadline, Meghalaya has launched a full-scale push to ensure 100 percent Aadhaar seeding of ration cards. At present, only 49.61% of beneficiaries—roughly 10 lakh out of over 21 lakh—have linked their Aadhaar, leaving nearly 11 lakh yet to be covered under the National Food Security Act.
Launching the Mission Mode Project for Aadhaar Seeding of Ration Cards, Minister in-charge of Food & Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Comingone Ymbon stressed the urgency and critical importance of the initiative. “In Meghalaya, so far only 49.61% of beneficiaries (around 10 lakh people) have linked their Aadhaar. Nearly 11 lakh beneficiaries must be covered in the next 84 days,” he said.
Ymbon informed that the Centre has set June 30, 2025, as the final deadline for states to complete 100% Aadhaar seeding, adding that the task is vital to eliminate duplication, prevent misuse, and ensure that food grains reach the most deserving sections of society.
“It will strengthen accountability by removing ghost beneficiaries and prevent disruptions in the supply of food under the National Food Security Act,” he added. He highlighted that Aadhaar seeding will benefit the most vulnerable families—farmers, daily wage earners, and mothers in both rural and urban Meghalaya.
Outlining the implementation strategy, the minister said, “The deputy commissioners, sub-divisional officers, and block development officers will lead the implementation of the mission at the local levels. Over 4,500 fair price shop dealers will act as seeding hubs for beneficiary enrolment while the community leaders will play vital role in mobilising and spreading awareness at the grassroots level.”
To boost public awareness, the government will adopt a multi-pronged strategy including radio broadcasts, hoardings, flyers, mobile vans, and direct personal outreach campaigns.
Ymbon urged ration card holders to begin the Aadhaar linking process without delay. “Ration card holders should visit their nearest fair price shop, block office, or district supply office with their Aadhaar from April 14. We urge all beneficiaries to complete Aadhaar seeding at the earliest. Do not wait until the deadline,” he said.
Appealing for collective responsibility, the minister added, “We also appeal to local leaders to encourage and guide communities in linking their Aadhaar and we direct field officials to execute the task with sincerity and dedication.”
Expressing optimism, Ymbon stated, “We are committed to ensuring food security, transparency, and rightful distribution of essential commodities. Let us work together to make this mission a success.”