The first set of Aadhaar Smart cards in the country will be distributed to beneficiaries by Chief Minister N. Kiran Kumar Reddy at Maheswaram in Ranga Reddy district today. These cards have been prepared under a pilot scheme being implemented by the Unique Identity Authority of India in the seven districts of Srikakulam, East Godavari, Adilabad, Hyderabad, Chittoor, Anantapur and Ranga Reddy.

These multi-utility cards, which will replace the ration cards, will help people claim benefits under the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS), Arogyasri, scholarships, pensions, housing and self-help group schemes and even cooking gas, besides the regular monthly quota of essential commodities under the Public Distribution System. Aadhaar cards will serve as ID proof for all purposes.

Published Date : Friday, 28/1/2011 3:03 PM IST