Link Ration Card with Aadhaar
The Aadhaar card is a unique identification document issued by the Indian government to residents of India. It contains a 12-digit unique identification number as proof of identity and address. On the other hand, a ration card is an essential document that allows Indian citizens to purchase subsidized food items from the Public Distribution System (PDS). Linking the Aadhaar card with the ration card has become mandatory to avail the benefits of various government welfare schemes. This article will discuss the significance of linking your Aadhaar card and ration card.
Importance of Linking Aadhaar Card and Ration Card:
The linking of the Aadhaar card and ration card is a crucial step taken by the government to streamline the distribution of food subsidies and ensure that the benefits reach the intended beneficiaries. By linking the two documents, the government can eliminate duplicate and fake ration cards, reducing the chances of misappropriating food grains and other essentials.
Documents Required for Linking:
Before initiating the linking process, make sure to keep the following documents handy:
- Aadhaar card photocopy
- Ration card photocopy
- A copy of the bank passbook
- Passport-size photos of the head of the family
- Any other documents required by your state’s government
Online Method for Linking Aadhaar Card and Ration Card:
Numerous states offer the online option to link Aadhaar Card with Ration Card. Follow these steps:
- Visit your state’s PDS portal.
- Enter the Ration Card number.
- Enter the Aadhaar number.
- Enter the registered mobile number.
- Click continue/submit.
- Receive OTP on mobile.
- Enter OTP to link Aadhaar with a ration card.
- You will receive a success message confirming the successful completion of the linking process.
Offline Method for Linking Aadhaar Card and Ration Card:
To link your Aadhaar and Ration Card offline, follow these steps:
- Visit the nearest PDS centre or Ration Shop/local ration office.
- Carry photocopies of the Ration Card and Aadhaar of all family members and the head’s passport-size photograph.
- If your bank account is not linked with Aadhaar, submit the bank passbook copy as well.
- Provide all documents at the PDS shop along with an Aadhaar copy.
- For first-time Aadhaar authentication, fingerprint verification might be required.
Once submitted, you’ll receive an SMS notification on your registered mobile number. Another SMS will confirm successful linking.
Benefits of Linking Aadhaar Card and Ration Card:
The linkage of the Aadhaar card and ration card offers several advantages:
1. Eliminating Duplicate Ration Cards: Linking Aadhaar helps identify and eliminate duplicate and fake ration cards, ensuring subsidies reach only eligible beneficiaries.
2. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Schemes: Government welfare schemes and subsidies are directly transferred to beneficiaries’ bank accounts, reducing leakages and ensuring transparency.
3. Enhanced Transparency and Accountability: The linkage ensures transparency in the distribution system, making tracking the flow of ration supplies and benefits easier.
4. Better Targeting of Beneficiaries: By weeding out ineligible beneficiaries, the government can better target those who genuinely need assistance.
Conclusion
Linking your Aadhaar card and ration card is crucial to the efficient and transparent distribution of food subsidies and welfare benefits. It helps the government target the right beneficiaries, eliminate fraud, and streamline the system. Whether you choose the online or offline method, complete the linking process immediately to avail the benefits without disruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I link my Aadhaar card with multiple ration cards?
Yes, you can link your Aadhaar card with multiple ration cards if you are the rightful beneficiary of those cards.
2. Is linking Aadhaar with the ration card mandatory for everyone?
As per government directives, linking Aadhaar with the ration card is mandatory for all beneficiaries.
3. What should I do if my ration card details are incorrect in the Aadhaar database?
You should approach your local ration office to rectify the errors in the Aadhaar database.
4. Can I check the status of my Aadhaar-ration card linking application online?
Yes, you can check your application’s status on the concerned department’s official website.
5. Is there any deadline for linking Aadhaar with the ration card?
The deadlines for Aadhaar-ration card linking may vary from state to state. Check with your local authorities for specific timelines.
