The Telangana government embarked on a historic welfare initiative in 2025 by distributing over 5.61 lakh new ration cards in a single phase. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, alongside his Cabinet, inaugurated the drive in Tungaturthy, Suryapet district. This move aims to enhance food security and restore dignity to the poor through comprehensive welfare schemes.
Recent Welfare Initiative
Telangana’s government sanctioned 5.6 lakh new ration cards, adding 26 lakh individuals to the public distribution system. Currently, 3.10 crore citizens receive fine rice through this programme. The initiative marks the first large-scale ration card issuance in over 11 years. It has raised total ration card holders to 95.56 lakh households, covering more than 3.09 crore beneficiaries.
Significance of Ration Card Distribution
The drive ensures every eligible person obtains a ration card. It addresses previous government neglect, which blocked new cards and updates, causing hardships for many families. This move is described as a ‘revolution in public service delivery,’ aimed at guaranteeing food rights and social justice.
Quality and Quantity of Food Security
Telangana is the first state globally to provide 6 kg of fine rice per person to 80% of its population free of cost. The government allocates ₹13,000 crore annually to procure and distribute this rice. This level of quality and scale is unmatched by any other state of India, reflecting a strong commitment to welfare.
Political and Administrative Context
The welfare programme draws inspiration from the National Food Security Act under UPA leadership, particularly Congress leader Sonia Gandhi. The previous regime, led by the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), is criticised for neglecting the public distribution system. The Civil Supplies Corporation had accumulated ₹59,000 crore in liabilities and ₹11,000 crore in losses before revival by the current government.
Future Infrastructure Plans
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy promised to bring Godavari river waters to Tungaturthy via the Devdula project. This infrastructure plan aims to improve agricultural irrigation and support farmers, complementing the food security efforts.
Impact on Farmers and Poor
Alongside ration cards, the government promotes farmers’ insurance and loan waivers. These measures aim to uplift vulnerable sections and reduce economic distress. Restoring self-respect among the poor remains a central objective of these welfare schemes.
Transformation of Public Distribution System
The revival of the Civil Supplies Department has turned it into a key driver of welfare. The department now efficiently manages procurement and distribution, overcoming past financial and operational challenges.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the role of public distribution systems in ensuring food security in India and their challenges.
- Analyse the impact of state-led welfare schemes on poverty alleviation and social equity in India.
- Examine the significance of water resource projects like the Devdula project in supporting agricultural sustainability in Telangana.
- Estimate the fiscal implications of large-scale welfare programmes on state budgets and suggest measures for sustainable financing.
