Ration cards are issued by state governments to provide subsidized food grains under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). Each state has its own portal and process. This guide covers documents and steps common across all states.
Types of Ration Cards
| Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) | Poorest families — 35 kg grain/month free |
| Priority Household (PHH) | BPL families — 5 kg/person/month at subsidized rate |
| Above Poverty Line (APL) | Higher-income families — market-rate allocation |
| Annapurna | Destitute elderly above 65 years — 10 kg grain free |
Documents Required
- ●Aadhaar card of all family members (mandatory)
- ●Address proof (electricity bill / rent agreement)
- ●Income certificate for BPL/AAY (issued by tehsildar)
- ●Family photograph
- ●Mobile number for OTP and communication
- ●Bank account passbook (some states)
- ●Caste certificate if applying for SC/ST category
State-Wise Portals
| Uttar Pradesh | fcs.up.gov.in |
| Maharashtra | rcms.mahafood.gov.in |
| Bihar | epds.bihar.gov.in |
| Rajasthan | food.rajasthan.gov.in |
| Tamil Nadu | tnpds.gov.in |
| West Bengal | wbpds.wb.gov.in |
| All Other States | Search: [State name] Food & Civil Supplies portal |
How to Apply (General Steps)
- 1Visit your state's Food & Civil Supplies portal
- 2Click "Apply for New Ration Card" or "Register"
- 3Enter head of family's Aadhaar and mobile OTP
- 4Fill family details — add all members with their Aadhaar numbers
- 5Select card type (PHH/AAY/APL) based on family income
- 6Upload required documents
- 7Submit and note the application reference number
- 8If not available online, visit your nearest SDM / Tehsil office with documents
Ration card application is FREE. Do NOT pay anyone to apply. Many agents charge ₹500–₹2000 for this free service. Report touts to your District Supply Officer.
Under "One Nation One Ration Card" (ONORC), you can use your ration card at any PDS shop in India — very useful if you migrate for work.