On June 27, Food Minister Ram Vilas Paswan announced plans to move towards a system of ‘One Nation One Ration Card’ (ONORC). The system, once introduced, would enable beneficiaries to get their quota of grains from any ration shop of their own choice across the country which will be of considerable utility to migrants.
Background
Until now, ration card holders had been entitled to purchase essential commodities from ration shops within the state issuing the card.
Analysis
Low Bargaining power of Migrants: Given the quintessential low bargaining power associated with the fact of being a migrant, the costs are generally steeper for migrant families.
Way Forward
Currently the beneficiaries can lift 50 per cent of their entitlement under this portability scheme. It should be made 100 percent at the earliest as food and nutrition are non negotiable entitlements.