Tue Jan 21 03:30:00 UTC 2025: ## NGO Urges Telangana Govt to Use Caste Survey Data for New Ration Cards

**Hyderabad:** The Association for Socio-Economic Empowerment for the Marginalized (ASEEM), a Hyderabad-based NGO, has urged the Telangana government to utilize caste survey data and existing ration card application data for issuing new ration cards. In a letter to Chief Minister K. Revanth Reddy, Civil Supplies Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy, and senior state officials, ASEEM criticized the government’s plan to use data collected through the “Mee Seva” app since 2018, arguing that many residents may have changed addresses since then.

The NGO suggested leveraging the caste survey data instead, ensuring a more accurate reflection of current needs. ASEEM also recommended a dedicated window for applicants to update or correct their existing applications and proposed a transparent process, publishing relevant information, government orders, and notifications on the Civil Supplies Department website.

To prevent duplicate applications, ASEEM suggested a system allowing applicants to check the status of their ration card applications (old or new) using their Aadhaar details. The NGO further advocated for the approval of new ration card applications at the gram panchayat level through the “Mee Seva” portal to enhance transparency and accessibility.

ASEEM stressed the importance of widespread publicity of eligibility criteria and procedures in local languages through various media channels to avoid confusion among applicants. The letter also emphasized the resolution of pending complaints, adherence to Food Commission and Telangana High Court orders concerning ration cards, and the issuance of new cards without unnecessary additional verification.

Finally, ASEEM recommended amending guidelines related to the Comprehensive Family Survey, stating its lack of legal backing and advocating for its cancellation. The NGO reiterated the importance of ensuring that no eligible family is deprived of food security benefits under the National Food Security Act, 2013.

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