Assam has recently joined the list of Indian states implementing the One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) scheme. This achievement marks the successful nationwide implementation of this programme, a milestone in ensuring food security across the country. In conjunction with ONORC, the government has also introduced the ‘MERA RATION’ mobile application, providing real-time information to beneficiaries in 13 languages.
ONORC Explained: A Solution for Migrant Workers and AtmaNirbhar Bharat
ONORC is a system being executed under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). This scheme allows all NFSA beneficiaries, specifically migrant workers, to claim either full or part foodgrains from any Fair Price Shop (FPS) in India using their existing ration card with biometric/Aadhaar authentication. The scheme, initiated in August 2019, was designed to empower NFSA beneficiaries with food security throughout the nation by enabling them to access their entitled subsidized food grains from any FPS.
Significance of ONORC: Tackling Geographical Hindrances and Leakages
Previously, beneficiaries could only avail their subsidized food grains entitlement from designated FPS within their resident state. If they migrated, they were required to apply for a new ration card in the new state. ONORC aims to remove this geographical hindrance, ensuring the right to food everywhere. It has significance for migrating labourers and has the potential to reduce leakages as it eliminates duplication. The use of Aadhaar and biometrics also mitigates most corruption opportunities.
Challenges Faced by ONORC: Exclusion Error and Domicile-Based Schemes
The digitization of the PDS, via Aadhaar-linked ration cards and smart cards, aims to reduce leakages. However, it has led to an increase in exclusion errors after Aadhaar seeding. Some segments of society still do not possess Aadhaar Cards, which can result in them being deprived of food security. Additionally, the domicile-based nature of most anti-poverty and welfare schemes restricts people’s access to government social security, welfare, and food entitlements at their place of origin.
Disruption in FPS Supplies and the Performance of ONORC
The ONORC plan might disrupt the existing practice at Fair Price Shops (FPS), as these FPSs usually receive products strictly aligned with the number of assigned individuals. However, the ONORC scheme will require some FPSs to cater to a varying number of ration cards due to population migration. Despite these challenges, the scheme has seen significant success since its initiation in 2019, providing support to nearly 80 crore beneficiaries.
Way Forward: Strengthening Food Security Measures
Considering the potential disruptions to traditional ration shops, delivery channels for food grains can be rethought for vulnerable communities. Food security needs to be seen from a broader framework of nutritional security. Consequently, ONORC should allow portability of Integrated Child Development Services, Mid-Day Meals, immunization, healthcare services, and other facilities. In the future, the PDS system may transition to a fool-proof food coupon system or direct benefit transfer. This proposed change would enable a Below Poverty Line family to buy essential commodities from any store at market price, either paying completely through the coupon or by cash.
