State-wise data shows that Haryana reported the highest number of cancelled cards at about 13.43 lakh.

India Cancels 41 Lakh Fake Ration Cards in 2025 to Streamline Public Distribution

A large-scale clean-up of India’s ration system has led to the cancellation of over 41 lakh ineligible cards in 2025, as the government steps up efforts to plug leakages and improve delivery of subsidised food.

The exercise, driven by digitisation and Aadhaar-based verification, has significantly reduced duplication in the public distribution system. The government said nearly 99.2 percent of beneficiaries are now linked with Aadhaar, while close to 98.75 percent of foodgrain distribution is carried out using biometric and digital authentication.

Technology upgrades have also transformed operations on the ground, with almost all fair price shops across the country now equipped with electronic point of sale devices. Authorities say this has improved tracking and ensured that benefits reach genuine recipients.

State-wise data shows that Haryana reported the highest number of cancelled cards at about 13.43 lakh. Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh also saw substantial deletions, highlighting the scale of the clean-up drive.

The trend has remained consistent over the past few years. Around 48.85 lakh cards were removed in 2024, compared with 41.99 lakh in 2023.

Sharing the details in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Food and Consumer Affairs Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya said the reforms are aimed at increasing transparency and ensuring that food subsidies reach the intended beneficiaries.