The ration card, one of the most important government documents in India, is now a step ahead of the regular ration card. This new Digital Ration Card is a new digital form. It is different from a plastic card or a paper copy and is an electronic document stored on your smartphone.
It includes user information along with QR code and bar code which comes with advance and more secure features. What are the differences between a normal ration card and a digital ration card? A general ration card is a physical document issued by the government to eligible households. The main difference is that digital cards are part of the online, networked infrastructure in their format and the system they operate, facilitate modern features. But ordinary cards are traditional paper documents which have to be bothered about knowing or getting old but there is no such worry about digital card. You can keep it on your phone.
Part One Ration Card (ONORC) Scheme: This is a new digital ration card under the One Nation One Ration Card (One Nation, One Card) scheme of the Central Government. It is directly linked with your card number and Aadhaar number. So know what are the major benefits of digital ration card and how to apply for it and how to download it.
Key Benefits of the New Digital Ration Card:
- Security and Easy Availability: Since the digital ration card is on your phone, there is no fear of losing or damaging it. You can easily show it in case of emergency.
- Transparency and Corruption Control: It makes the ration distribution system more transparent. It helps in preventing fake cards. The information about how much ration you have taken from the fair price shops will be recorded.
- Help for Migrant Workers: This is very useful for migrant workers who go to other states in search of work. They will be able to get their ration in any state.
- Identity Proof: It is also useful to avail the benefits of government schemes and to use it as an identity proof.
How to apply for a digital ration card?
- You can follow the following steps to get a new digital ration card:
- First, visit the official website of your state’s Food and Civil Supplies Department.
- There, find the option ‘Apply for New Ration Card’ and click on it.
- Fill out the online application. Enter your personal information, family member information, and address details.
- Upload scanned copies of the required documents. This usually requires Aadhaar card, voter ID, address proof, income certificate and family photograph.
- After submitting the application, you will get a registration number or application number. Through this, you can check the status of your application. In some states, you can apply at Common Service Centres (CSCs).
How to download digital ration card?
State official portal: Go to the official website of your state’s Food and Civil Supplies Department. There you will find an option called ‘Download e-Ration Card’ or ‘Print Ration Card’. Enter your ration card number or Aadhaar number. Then you can download the card by entering the OTP received on your registered mobile number.
‘Mera Ration’ mobile app: Download the central government’s ‘Mera Ration’ app. Enter your ration card number in this app, you can view and save a digital copy of your card.
Where to apply: Online application through portals like MyScheme, DigiLocker and National Portal of India facilitates status tracking and downloading of ration cards.