How to apply for Ration Card Online?

Ration Card is an important document issued by the State Government of each state under the National Food Security Act, 2013, which serves as a document of identity and address proof. With the advent of digitization in India, most States are trying to digitize applying for ration cards. This article discusses, in brief, the process for the online application of a Ration Card.

Ration card in India is a common document of address and identity proof that makes Indian households eligible to purchase subsidized food grain from the Targeted Public Distribution System (“TPDS”). It is governed by the National Food Security Act, 2013 (“NFSA”). Before introducing the NFSA, ration cards were issued by the State Government under the TDPS.

What is a Ration Card? 

As per the NFSA, a ration card is a document issued under an order or authority of the State Government to purchase essential commodities from the fair price shops under the Targeted Public Distribution System. 
Ration card serves as identity proof and an indication of an individual’s economic status. A ration card is not required to be obtained mandatorily by every person; however, people generally apply for such a card. It is a generally accepted identity proof and helps people obtain various government benefits.

Types of Ration Card 

There are different types of ration cards that each government issues. However, generally, they are as under: 

Blue/Pink/ Red/ Yellow/ Green Ration Cards: 
Issued to persons below the poverty line and can be used to obtain subsidies on food, fuel, and other goods. 

White Ration Cards: 
Issued to persons above the poverty line and can be used for identification. 

Who can apply for a ration card?

Any person:
who is a citizen of India;
who has not already applied or in possession of such a card; and 
is not included in another ration card.

How to apply for a ration card online

Each State Government has prescribed separate application forms and processes for obtaining a ration card in their state. Some states have a completely online process where one can apply for a ration card online and receive the same through Indian post such as Bihar, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu. In contrast, some states have made available the forms for application for ration cards online, which must be downloaded and then submitted to the concerned office. 
The below table provides links for various states for online application and/or for download for ration card forms as may be applicable:

Documents required for applying for a ration card:

The following documents are required for obtaining a ration card:

• Completed and signed application form;
• Proof of Identity (such as Voters ID, Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, etc.); and
• Proof of Address (such as Electricity Bill, Telephone Bill, Bank Pass Book, etc.).

A ration card is a beneficial document for Indian citizens, which helps save money by assisting in procuring essential commodities at a subsidized rate. It has also become an important tool of identification nowadays.