Ration Card

A Ration Card is a document which is issued and approved by state governments for its residents. One of the main functions of the ration card is that it allows Indian families that are a part of the economically underprivileged sections of the Indian society to purchase the goods which are necessary for human survival at subsidised rates. The kind of products that a Ration cardholder can purchase at discounted prices with the help of the document are such as food items, kerosene, grains, pulses and dairy products, amongst others.

Historically, Ration Cards have proven to be very helpful to the individuals who have had a difficult time purchasing the kind of products mentioned above at grocery store rates. Typically, people who fall under the below poverty line (BPL) have been observed to be the ones who make use of a Rashan Card frequently. In addition to the same, a Ration Card also performs the function of proof of identity and address. It is also one of the many documents that an individual can furnish at the time of applying for other forms of identification issued by the government.

If you wish to apply for a Ration Card online, you will have to ensure that you meet the basic eligibility criteria first which includes -

• No one should have applied for a Ration Card on your behalf

• You should be the first one from your family to apply for the ration card

• You should be an Indian citizen

Now that you have ensured that you and your family meet the ration card eligibility criteria, you will have to arrange a few documents. Those documents concern your identity, residence and income. You can find a list of ration card documents below -

In order to apply for a Ration Card online/offline, you will need

• A copy of the State Application form

• A Proof of Identity (acceptable documents: Driving Licence, Election ID, Government ID Card, Passport)

• Residence Proof (acceptable documents: Telephone Bill, Electricity, LPG Receipt, Bank Passbook, Rental Agreement)

• A picture of the family head

• A proof of the annual income of the applicant

• Your cancelled/surrendered Ration Card, if you have one

In case you have moved to another city, you may have to transfer your ration card and ensure that it reflects the current address. For this, you need to submit a written application to the ration card office, located in the new city. Ensure to carry two passport-size photographs and the address proof like an electricity bill of your new home when applying for the transfer. You may also have to pay a small fee for the transfer. The process may take about 7 days to complete.

In select states, you can get e-ration cards through the Electronic Public Distribution System (EPDS). This initiative has been taken by the state and union governments as part of digitising the public distribution services in India. Some features of these ration cards include:

• Digital Access: The ration card is easily accessible through government portals and mobile apps. This makes it easier for you to check your entitlements, update information, and more.

• Convenience: Introduction of E-ration cards eliminate the need for physical documents and visits to government offices. This can simplify the process of getting goods and services at subsidised rates.

• Integration: The e-ration card system is often integrated with other government databases. This includes your Aadhaar, the national biometric identification system. It can help reduce fraud and ensure that benefits reach you, the intended recipient.

• Real-time Updates: You can get real-time updates on your entitlements, and any changes in the status of your ration card

• Transparency: The government aims to reduce corruption and improve the transparency of the ration distribution process with digitisation

While a ration card is not a mandatory document in India, it can be beneficial to get your card if you are eligible. With the rapid digitisation of public welfare systems in India, you can now apply for your ration card online in most Indian states. Remember to keep the paperwork ready, so the application process is smooth and hassle-free.

A ration card not only makes it easier to purchase provisions at subsidised rates, but also helps you with other official application procedures. Availing loans becomes easy too, since your ration card is a valid ID/address proof. If you wish to avail house loan at attractive rates of interest today, visit Bajaj Markets and check out your options.