The Salt Distribution Scheme is an initiative by the Department of Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs, Government of Jharkhand, aimed at ensuring affordable and nutritious salt for economically weaker sections. This scheme provides salt at a subsidized rate of ₹1 per kilogram to eligible beneficiaries, helping improve nutritional intake and reduce living expenses.
Benefits
- Subsidized Cost: Salt is available at ₹1 per kilogram, significantly reducing the cost burden.
- Regular Distribution: Beneficiaries receive their allocation on a monthly basis from designated distribution centers.
- Targeted Support: The scheme benefits AAY, PHH, and Green Card holders, prioritizing economically disadvantaged households.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Salt Distribution Scheme:
- Residency: The applicant must be a resident of Jharkhand.
- Card Requirement: The applicant must hold one of the following:
- Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) card,
- Priority Household (PHH) card under the NFSA,
- Green Card under the Jharkhand State Food Security Scheme.
- Economic Criteria: Preference is given to economically disadvantaged households.
Application Process
Offline Steps
- Visit Enrollment Center: Go to the nearest ration shop or designated enrollment center with the required documents.
- Aadhaar Enrollment: If you do not have an Aadhaar card, apply for Aadhaar enrollment at an authorized center.
- Submission: Provide your Aadhaar number or Aadhaar Enrolment Identification Slip during registration.
- Verification: A designated officer will verify your eligibility and documents.
- Collection: Once approved, collect the subsidized salt from the distribution center as per the monthly schedule.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card or Aadhaar Enrolment Identification Slip
- Bank or Post Office Passbook with photo
- Permanent Account Number (PAN) Card
- Passport (if available)
- Ration Card
- Voter Identity Card
- MGNREGA Card
- Kisan Photo Passbook
- Driving License (issued under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988)
- Certificate of Identity with a photo, issued by a Gazetted Officer or Tehsildar on official letterhead
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How can beneficiaries avail the subsidized salt under this scheme?
A1: Eligible beneficiaries can collect subsidized salt at designated fair price shops on a monthly basis after their eligibility is verified.
Q2: What documents are needed to apply if I don’t have Aadhaar?
A2: You can apply using an Aadhaar Enrolment Identification Slip. Additionally, other identity proofs such as a ration card, voter ID, or PAN card may be required.
Q3: Are Aadhaar enrollment facilities available under the scheme?
A3: Yes, if you do not have an Aadhaar card, you are advised to visit an authorized Aadhaar enrollment center.
Q4: What happens if Aadhaar authentication fails due to poor biometrics?
A4: In such cases, you may need to get re-enrolled or updated at an authorized center. Contact your local enrollment center for assistance.
Q5: Can I apply for the scheme if I don’t hold a Green Card?
A5: Yes, you can still apply if you hold an AAY or PHH card under the NFSA. Green Cardholders are one of the eligible groups, but not the only ones.
Q6: Is there any deadline for applying under the scheme?
A6: The scheme is ongoing, but timely submission during each enrollment cycle is necessary to receive monthly benefits.
Q7: Can I apply online for this scheme?
A7: Currently, the application process is conducted offline at designated centers.
Q8: What is the grievance redressal process under this scheme?
A8: For any issues or grievances, beneficiaries should contact the local ration shop or enrollment center. Detailed contact information is available at these centers.
Q9: What if I move to a different state?
A9: Eligibility is specific to residents of Jharkhand. Moving out of state may affect your eligibility for this particular scheme.
Q10: Is there a limit on the quantity of salt provided?
A10: Yes, salt is provided on a monthly basis as per the guidelines, and beneficiaries should adhere to the prescribed quantity limits.