Bhubaneswar, Apr 28: The Odisha government has initiated a rigorous drive to identify and cancel ration cards held by foreign nationals, including individuals from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.

Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra announced that district collectors have been instructed to verify the credentials of ration cardholders and remove ineligible names from the database.

Reports indicate that several foreign nationals have illegally obtained ration cards, exploiting the state's welfare schemes.

Minister Patra emphasised that the process of identification is underway, and the exact number of illegal beneficiaries will be revealed upon completion. He also stated that individuals who acquired ration cards through political influence or other means would be identified and removed.

In another development, to ensure transparency and efficiency, the government has planned a mega campaign to distribute new ration cards to eligible citizens. Ten major events will be organized across the state to facilitate this process. The initiative aims to streamline welfare schemes and ensure that benefits reach genuine beneficiaries.

In a related development, Panchayati Raj Minister Rabi Narayan Naik revealed that the identification of illegal immigrants has been ongoing at the panchayat level for the past two months. Lists of suspected individuals have been prepared, and their activities are being closely monitored. The government is particularly concerned about security implications following recent terrorist attacks.

The Home Ministry has already issued directives to identify and deport foreign nationals residing without valid visas. Verification processes include checking Aadhaar and voter ID cards, with inputs from local representatives.

This initiative underscores the government's commitment to safeguarding welfare schemes and addressing security concerns.

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