Residents of Bonda Ghati, a remote area in the Malkangiri district of Odisha, are facing serious challenges in updating their ration card information through the online e-KYC system. This process is crucial because it validates their eligibility for food supplies, and delays or failures in updating could mean losing access to these essential services.
The Connectivity Challenge
One of the primary hurdles in the area is poor internet connectivity. Many tribal residents rely on mobile networks to complete their e-KYC updates, but the weak and inconsistent network signals in the region are making the process extremely difficult. This connectivity issue not only hampers communication but also limits access to necessary digital services at a time when online verification is mandatory.
Administrative Hurdles
Alongside the technical issues, there is also a perception among locals that local authorities are not acting with enough urgency. The administrative delay has left many illiterate tribal residents feeling neglected and vulnerable. The slow pace of local government actions is compounded by the digital divide, leaving the community struggling to meet the impending deadline for updating their records.
Current Statistics and Regional Impact
The situation in Malkangiri is particularly dire when viewed through the numbers. In the Mudulipada area alone, only 2,394 out of 4,055 ration cardholders have updated their e-KYC information. This means that 1,661 people are still pending, reflecting a broader trend across the district.
Overall, approximately 85 percent of the 538,473 beneficiaries in Malkangiri have managed to complete the e-KYC update. However, around 15 percent—roughly 82,778 individuals—have not updated their information. This places Malkangiri as the 29th district in the state for e-KYC completion, ranking second from the bottom.
Government Measures and Response
In response to the mounting concerns, local officials have set up special camps aimed at assisting residents in remote areas. These camps are specifically designed to address the connectivity issues by providing a reliable setup for the e-KYC update process. By bringing the services closer to the people, the government hopes to ensure that every eligible beneficiary can access the support they need in time for the deadline.
Community Voices and Personal Experiences
Local residents have voiced their frustrations over the current situation. Sania Muduli, a young local, highlighted that many tribal beneficiaries are forced to travel long distances—sometimes to places like Khairaput, Mudulipada, or Gahirpali—just to update their e-KYC details. This long journey not only adds physical strain but also increases the risk that some may miss the deadline entirely, thereby jeopardizing their access to food supplies.
