Mandatory National ID for Social Security Allowance in 28 Districts from July 16

The government has announced that social security allowances will be distributed in 28 districts starting July 16, with a national identity card number now mandatory for most beneficiaries. However, children, the helpless, disabled individuals, and senior citizens over 90 years old will be exempt from this requirement. Beneficiaries must renew their identity cards by obtaining a national ID number by August 16 to continue receiving their allowances.

In a press release issued today, the Home Ministry urged beneficiaries to obtain their national ID numbers at their convenience. This initiative aims to streamline the distribution process and ensure accurate record-keeping.

The mandate for national ID numbers affects beneficiaries in the following districts: Jhapa, Morang, Sunsari, Udayapur, Saptari, Siraha, Dhanusha, Mahottari, Bara, Parsa, Rautahat, Sarlahi, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Lalitpur, Sindhuli, Makawanpur, Chitwan, Kaski, Tanahu, Rupandehi, Kapilvastu, Dang, Banke, Bardiya, Surkhet, Kailali, and Kanchanpur.

The decision led to large gatherings at District Administration Offices as beneficiaries rushed to register for national ID cards. Addressing these challenges, Home Ministry spokesperson Narayan Prasad Bhattarai acknowledged complaints about the difficulties faced by senior citizens and disabled persons in obtaining national ID numbers.

To alleviate these issues, Chief District Officers have been instructed to coordinate with local government bodies to facilitate the collection of details at ward offices. This measure specifically targets senior citizens and disabled persons to make the process more accessible.

Furthermore, the Ministry has called on all local levels to assist in the national ID registration process in collaboration with District Administration Offices. To support this initiative, 438 registration operators have been deployed across the 28 districts to ensure smooth and efficient service delivery.

The government remains committed to making social security allowances accessible to all eligible citizens while maintaining a robust and organized system through the implementation of national ID requirements.