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Types of Ration Cards in India: A Complete Guide

Posted on by PVC CARD PRINTING
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27
Jan

Ration cards in India are categorized based on the economic status of households and are issued under the Public Distribution System (PDS) to ensure food security. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. APL (Above Poverty Line) Card

  • Eligibility: Families with income above the poverty line.
  • Benefits: Limited subsidies on essential commodities like rice, wheat, and sugar.
  • Use Case: Primarily serves as a proof of identity and residency for families with stable financial status.

2. BPL (Below Poverty Line) Card

  • Eligibility: Families living below the poverty line, as defined by government criteria.
  • Benefits: Higher subsidies on essential commodities to alleviate poverty.
  • Use Case: Provides access to heavily subsidized food grains and basic necessities.

3. PHH (Priority Household) Card

  • Eligibility: Households identified under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).
  • Benefits: Access to food grains at a subsidized price of ₹3/kg for rice, ₹2/kg for wheat, and ₹1/kg for coarse grains.
  • Use Case: Ensures food security for economically weaker sections.

4. AAY (Antyodaya Anna Yojana) Card

  • Eligibility: Poorest of the poor households, including daily wage earners, landless laborers, and marginalized families.
  • Benefits: Provides up to 35 kg of food grains per family per month at highly subsidized rates.
  • Use Case: Designed to prevent hunger and malnutrition among the most vulnerable populations.

5. Smart Ration Cards

  • Eligibility: Issued in select states as part of the digitization of PDS.
  • Benefits:
    • Digitized card linked to Aadhaar for biometric authentication.
    • Enables portability under the One Nation, One Ration Card (ONORC) scheme.
    • Reduces fraud and ensures transparency.
  • Use Case: Offers convenience and improved accessibility for beneficiaries.

How to Apply for a Ration Card

The application process varies by state and can be done both online and offline. You can find more details in our comprehensive guide on How to Apply for a Ration Card.

For personalized card printing, including smart cards and RFID cards, visit PVC Card Printing.

FAQs on Types of Ration Cards

1. Can I apply for a BPL card if my income increases later?
No, eligibility for a BPL card is determined at the time of application based on your income. If your income status changes, you may need to update your ration card category.

2. Are smart ration cards available in all states?
Not yet. Smart ration cards have been introduced in select states as part of the PDS digitization process.

3. What is the difference between AAY and PHH cards?
AAY cards are specifically for the poorest of the poor, while PHH cards cover a broader range of economically weaker households.

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