Bihar Ration Card: A Comprehensive Guide to Online Application and Benefits

Ration cards are essential for citizens to obtain subsidized food grains and other essential commodities. The Bihar government has made it possible to apply for a ration card online, simplifying the process for its residents. In this article, we will explore how to apply for a Bihar ration card online, its benefits, and the necessary documents required for the application.

Bihar Ration Card: Online Application

Residents of Bihar who wish to apply for a new ration card or renew an existing one can now do so through the official website of the Department of Food and Consumer Protection. This online application process eliminates the need for residents to visit government offices. Any resident of Bihar who is 18 years or older can complete the Bihar online application for 2022, which is similar to the ration card Bihar online application for 2021.

Simplified Process in Bihar

The Bihar government has made significant changes to the ration card application process. Now, citizens can apply for a ration card any day. The Bihar ration card system is fully open and accessible to everyone. The new process has made it easier for all residents to access their ration cards, similar to voter ID cards. According to the Department of Food and Consumer Protection, Bihar is the first state in the country to make obtaining a ration card extremely easy.

During the coronavirus lockdown last year, the Bihar government issued 2.35 million new ration cards. From June to December, an additional 100,000 ration cards were created. The ration card download Bihar facility has made it very easy for people to obtain their cards. Currently, 17.6 million ration cardholders receive monthly rations from the government. Bihar requires 4.25 million metric tons of rice and wheat every month. The Bihar government ensures that wheat and rice reach every needy person. The entire ration card system is now available online. Last month, the Bihar government distributed 519,000 metric tons of grain.

Importance of Ration Card

Using the Bihar ration card, residents can obtain food products such as wheat, rice, kerosene, sugar, and other items supplied to ration shops at subsidized prices. This is particularly beneficial for economically disadvantaged individuals who struggle to purchase sufficient food for themselves and their families. The ration card allows them to buy food at lower prices and sustain themselves.

Objectives of Bihar Ration Card

Previously, obtaining a ration card was a cumbersome process for state residents. Now, they can easily apply for a ration card online, saving a significant amount of time. By providing subsidized food items like sugar, rice, and wheat through the ration card, the government aims to improve the living standards of the poor.

Benefits of Ration Card

• Identification Proof: Ration cards can be used as identification proof.
• Voter ID and Driving License: Ration cards are necessary for obtaining voter ID and driving licenses.
• Subsidized Food Items: Residents can obtain low-cost food items like wheat, rice, kerosene, and sugar through the Bihar ration card.
• Electricity Connection: Those who wish to obtain an electricity connection can do so using a ration card.
• Online Application: You can now apply for a ration card online from the comfort of your home.

Required Documents for Bihar Ration Card Application

To apply for a Bihar ration card, the following documents are required:

• Permanent resident certificate of Bihar
• Aadhaar card
• Postal address
• Income certificate
• Mobile number
• Passport size photo

Types of Ration Cards in Bihar

BPL Ration Card

• Color: Red
• Eligibility: Families with an annual income of less than ₹10,000 are eligible for this card.

AAY Ration Card

• Color: Yellow
• Eligibility: Distributed to the poorest and most needy individuals in society.

These ration cards are distributed based on household income and status.

How to Apply for Bihar Ration Card

Residents who wish to apply for a ration card can download the Bihar ration card PDF file and follow the steps mentioned. They can also follow the online procedure for applying for a ration card in Bihar:

1. Obtain Application Form: Get the application form for a new consumer (ration) card from any circle office/SDO under this scheme.
2. Fill the Form: Complete the application form with all the required information, such as your name, address, and phone number.
3. Submit Documents: Submit passport-sized photos of the head of the household, confirmed by a gazetted officer/MLA/MP/Municipal Councilor, along with specified proof of residence and a surrender/deletion certificate of the previous ration card.
4. Verification: If proof of residence is not available, the FSO/SI/MO will conduct an inquiry on-site and record statements from two independent witnesses in the neighborhood.
5. Submit Application: Support the application form with all the necessary documents.
6. Processing Time: The average time required to prepare a ration card is 15 days. Thus, your application is submitted.

Improvement in Ration Card Aadhaar Seeding Rate

The department has also stated that ration cards are linked to Aadhaar cards. As a result, the seeding of Aadhaar cards has accelerated. In the state, 1,000 to 1,200 Aadhaar seedings are done daily. The Bihar government set a deadline of March 2021 to link all ration cards with Aadhaar. Citizens who have not completed the Aadhaar seeding process will be deprived of rations. By February 2021, 90% of Aadhaar seeding was completed.

Conclusion

The Bihar ration card system has undergone significant changes, making it easier for residents to apply for and obtain ration cards online. This initiative not only saves time but also ensures that subsidized food items reach the needy, improving their living standards. By following the simple steps and providing the necessary documents, residents can easily apply for a Bihar ration card and enjoy its numerous benefits.