The ration card system in India enables households to buy essential food items and fuel at highly subsidised rates from designated public distribution shops. It also acts as a document for identity proof as well as the residence of citizens.

What Are the Different Types Of Ration Cards?

There are two kinds of ration cards that have been described below.

• Priority Household (PHH) is for those who meet the eligibility criteria set by the government and can get up to 5 kg of food grains every month.

• Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) ration cards are issued to those who come under the Antyondaya families and are entitled to 35 kg of food grains every month.

Traditionally made from paper, ration cards are now being issued in digital format by state governments under the National Food Security Act 2013. This has made the application and management of ration cards extremely convenient through online portals and databases.

Also read: BPL Ration Cards For Marginalised Communities

What Are the Benefits Of A Digital Ration Card?

From removing the hassle of physical visit to easy accessibility, benefits of a digital Ration Card are many. Find out some of the key benefits of e-ration card below.

• Apply for a new ration card instantly without visiting any office.

• Retrieve details easily with a ration card number search.

• Card data is stored securely in government databases.

• Update details like name, address, and number of members at any time.

• Changes are reflected quickly across the system.

• Transparent card status tracking and grievance redressal.

• Reduce fraud and identity theft risks.

• Print the e-card anytime from home or access it digitally.

• Can be used as identification proof while applying for the pan.

The e-ration card is a commendable initiative. However, it might pose a challenge for people with less internet access and for elderly people who aren’t as technologically advanced. These are not disadvantages of e-ration cards, as there is a good balance between traditional and digital methods of carrying one's ration card.

The digital ration cards will help to collect a vast amount of information about the citizens, which can be used to know consumption patterns, trends, etc.

Read more: Ration Card Scheme 2024 Updates

Steps To Apply For A Digital Ration Card

To apply for a digital ration card, follow the steps given below.

• Visit the NSFA website and sign up there to create an account.

• Add the required details when asked during the registration process, such as your ID proof, like an Aadhar card, and also create a safe and secure password.

• Enter the OTP that you have received on your registered phone number to verify the newly created account.

• Go back to the home page to apply for a ration card and select your state as well.

• Fill in the necessary details and required fields, and your online Aadhar card is valid and good to go.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the digital ration card is a good initiative that helps the citizens as well as the government. By digitalizing the system, there will be more efficiency and transparency in the whole process. It also makes it flexible for the citizens, as they no longer have to carry their ration cards with them. This plays a crucial role in moving towards a digitalized nation.

For any queries, send an email to min-food@nic.in, or call 1123070637 or 1967. To know more updates about ration card, visit Jaagruk Bharat and follow our community page to share your opinions.