The ration card is an essential piece of identification for Indian citizens. They are critical in determining an individual’s or family’s identity. In essence, these cards allow a household to take advantage of the benefits of India’s Public Distribution System. In a nutshell, it is a document that provides total food security to the poorest of the poor. However, severe corruption and the requirement for a plethora of additional paperwork have prevented vulnerable groups from obtaining Ration Cards.
What Should I Do When Applying for a Ration Card?
Step 1: Anyone who is an Indian citizen in good standing may apply for a ration card. Minors under the age of 18 are covered by the ration cards of their parents. Those aged 18 and up may apply for a separate Ration Card.
Step 2: Ration Cards fall into two categories: BPL (Below Poverty Line) and non-BPL. People in the BPL category receive Blue/Yellow/Green/Red Ration Cards, which vary in colour depending on the individual’s eligibility for various food, fuel, and other product subsidies.
Step 3: Depending on the state of residence, a person must navigate to the appropriate URL. If you live in Andhra Pradesh, for example, the URL would be as follows:
If you are applying from Delhi, you must go to the official website of the Department of Food, Supplies, and Consumer Affairs, GNCT of the Government of Delhi.
Step 4: Have a passport, any government-issued ID card, aadhaar card, employee identity card, voter ID, health card, and driving licence on hand.
Step 5: Go to the application portal and fill out the form to get a new ration card.
Step 6: To obtain food security, click on the 2013 National Food Security Act (NFSA) application form.
Step 7: To complete this process, enter all of your personal information, upload all supporting documentation, and click “Apply Online.”
What are the benefits of ration cards?
The following are some of the benefits that a Ration Card holder may enjoy:
A ration card holder is entitled to subsidised food grains and basic commodities.
It is an important document that may be useful for federal and state government programmes.
Ration Cards can be used as proof of residence when applying for additional documents proving one’s address, such as a Pan Card or a driver’s licence.
Ration cards are used by the government to keep the lowest of the low in terms of living standards.
A new ration card is issued within 15 days of all documents being successfully verified. One could also apply for employment card, sharamik card through online mode.
