Ration Cards In India: Types, Eligibility & How To Apply
A ration card is a vital document for millions of Indian citizens, serving as a key tool in ensuring food security and supporting social welfare. Issued by the government, ration cards allow eligible households to purchase essential commodities such as rice, wheat, sugar, and kerosene at subsidised rates from fair price shops. Beyond its role in providing access to food, a ration card also acts as proof of identity and residence, making it an essential document for availing various government schemes and subsidies. This article delves into the significance of ration cards, the different types available, eligibility criteria, and the necessary documents required for application.
What is a Ration Card?
A ration card is an official government-issued document that enables individuals or families to purchase essential items at subsidised prices from designated outlets. The ration card system is primarily aimed at supporting low-income or economically disadvantaged households, ensuring that they have access to basic necessities. The quantity of goods available to a household is determined by its income level and the size of the family. Items typically available through this system include food grains, cooking oil, kerosene, LPG cylinders, and even some agricultural products like fertilisers.
Types of Ration Cards in India
India's ration card system is categorised into different types, each designed to serve specific segments of the population based on their economic status. Understanding these categories is crucial for determining eligibility and accessing the benefits provided by the government.
1. Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) Ration Card
The Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) ration card is intended for the most vulnerable and economically disadvantaged families in India. This card is specifically designed for households with an annual income below ₹15,000. Eligible beneficiaries include residents of slums, street vendors, rag pickers, cobblers, domestic workers, and construction workers. The AAY card provides these families with access to highly subsidised food grains, ensuring that they do not go hungry due to financial constraints.
2. Below Poverty Line (BPL) Ration Card
The Below Poverty Line (BPL) ration card is issued to families whose annual income falls below the poverty line, which is typically set at ₹24,200. BPL ration cardholders are entitled to purchase essential commodities at subsidised rates, helping them manage their daily needs despite their limited financial resources. The BPL category plays a significant role in alleviating poverty by ensuring that low-income families have access to affordable food.
3. Above Poverty Line (APL) Ration Card
The Above Poverty Line (APL) ration card is available to families with an annual income exceeding ₹1,00,000. Unlike the AAY and BPL categories, the APL card is not designed for the poorest sections of society but still provides access to subsidised food items for households that do not fall under the BPL or AAY categories. The APL card serves as a safety net for middle-income families, ensuring that they too can benefit from government subsidies in times of need.
Who Can Apply for a Ration Card?
The eligibility criteria for applying for a ration card vary depending on the type of card and the specific requirements of the state. Generally, households with an annual income below ₹1 lakh are eligible for the 'Priority' or Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) category. The following groups are typically eligible to apply
- Residents of slums, resettlement colonies, and notified abadies in rural areas.
- Shelterless individuals and transgenders.
- Households with disabled members, as defined by the Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995.
- Single women, including widows, unmarried, separated, and deserted women who are heads of households.
- Children without protection and individuals in occupationally vulnerable groups such as rag pickers, daily wage labourers, and domestic workers.
Required Documents for Ration Card Application
To apply for a ration card, the following documents are typically required
- A copy of the Aadhar card for all family members.
- Residence proof, if the applicant's residence is different from the one mentioned in their Aadhar card. Shelterless persons are exempt from providing residence proof.
- An income certificate issued by the Revenue Department, if applicable.
- An existing ration card, if the applicant or any household member already possesses one.
- Any category-specific certificates, as required.
- A cancelled or surrendered ration card, if applicable.