The ration card is an important document for every Indian household. It not only helps provide access to essential subsidized food grains and kerosene through the public distribution system (PDS) but also serves as an identity proof for government welfare schemes.
With an estimated 23.62 crore ration cards issued as of 2019, it is one of the most widely held government documents in India.
But how long does it actually take to get a new ration card made or an existing one updated? The process and time taken vary across different states. Here is a look at the key steps involved and the average time it takes to get a ration card in India.
Who Is Eligible For An Indian Ration Card?
Ration cards in India are issued to all families that meet the eligibility criteria set by the central and state governments. As per national guidelines, the following individuals are eligible for a ration card:
- All Indian citizens residing in a state/UT for at least 6 months
- Non-citizens such as Nepal refugees staying in India under relevant treaties
- Households only – individual applicants not allowed
Additionally, each state defines financial/occupational criteria for issuing ration cards under categories like APL and BPL. The annual income limit for BPL ration cards is generally under Rs 1 lakh per household.
What Are The Documents Required For A Ration Card?
To apply for a new ration card, individuals need to submit certain documents as identity and address proof. The key documents required in most states are:
- Proof of identity – Aadhaar card, voter ID, driving license, etc.
- Proof of residence – Rent agreement, electricity/water bill, etc.
- Photographs of all family members
- Surrender certificate of old ration card (if applicable)
Additional documents may be required in some states, like a gas connection proof, income certificate, caste certificate, etc. Applicants must carry original documents for verification during ration card registration.
Where To Apply For A New Ration Card In India?
Applications for new ration cards or modifications in existing cards are accepted at designated ration offices at the district or tehsil level across India. You can directly visit your area’s Food and Civil Supplies department office.
Many states also offer an online ration card application facility through portals like e-District, citizen service centers, etc. Applicants have to register on these portals and then apply for ration card services online.
How Many Days Does It Take To Get A Ration Card In India?
The time taken for ration card issuance varies across different states from 7 days to up to 45 days.
Here are the indicative timelines for new ration card registration in some major states:
- Uttar Pradesh – 7 days
- Gujarat – 15 days
- Rajasthan – 30 days
- Maharashtra – 20 days (Mumbai only)
- Karnataka – 45 days
- Kerala – 21 days
- Tamil Nadu – 30 days
- West Bengal – 15 days
The processing time depends on both the efficiency of the state administration as well as the existing burden of applications. The Covid-19 pandemic has also caused delays in many states.
Applicants can track their ration card application status online or through SMS systems wherever available.
Most states issue an acknowledgment slip on successful submission of the form and documents which can be used to follow up.
What Is The Fee For Getting A Ration Card Made In India?
Application and issuance of a new ration card is free of cost in most states. However, a nominal fee ranging from Rs 5 to Rs 25 may be charged in some states like Rajasthan, Punjab, Gujarat, etc.
Additional charges apply if a duplicate ration card is required or on updating existing ration cards – Rs 20 to Rs 50 based on the state. The ration card fees can be paid online or at the respective Ration Office through debit card/net banking or cash.
How To Check Ration Card Status And Get It Online?
Many state governments have digitized ration card records and offer online status check facility.
You can check the status of new ration card applications or existing card details through:
- Online check ration card status portals
- SMS – sending application number to designated number
- Missed call services in some states
- Toll free helpline numbers
Once ready, individuals can also download ration card from these portals or DigiLocker using registered mobile number. States like Delhi, Punjab, Maharashtra allow ration card download from portals.
However, a physical ration card may still be required to avail benefits in some regions.
How Many Days Does It Take To Get A Ration Card In Maharashtra?
In Maharashtra, it takes around 20 days to get a new ration card for residents of Mumbai. For other districts, it can take up to 30 days depending on the application processing timelines.
What Is The Eligibility Criteria For Getting A Ration Card In India?
Indian citizens living in a state for at least 6 months and certain categories of non-citizens like Nepal refugees are eligible for ration cards. Each state also defines financial criteria – BPL ration cards are given to households with annual income under Rs 1 lakh.
Is There A Fee For Getting A Ration Card Made?
Application and issuance of new ration cards is free in most states. However, a small fee of Rs 5 to Rs 25 applies in some states like Rajasthan, Punjab, etc. Duplicate or updated card charges are Rs 20 to Rs 50.
Conclusion
While the ration card issuance process is gradually getting streamlined with online systems in place, it still takes 15 to 30 days on average to get a new ration card made in most Indian states.
Planning applications in advance and diligently following up with the respective Food and Civil Supplies department can help expedite the process.
Carrying all the required documents and proofs helps verify eligibility faster for quick approval. Periodic checking of application status online or through helplines is key to knowing exactly how long more it will take to get your family ration card.