Do you know that the government has undergone a significant reform in the ration card rules? According to the new provisions implemented since May 2025, now it is quite easier and has become more comprehensible regarding the process of getting a ration card and enjoying facilities. Directly, this is going to affect millions of families across the nation. Let us know in detail what is special in the ration card new rules 2025, and what things you should keep in mind.
New Eligibility Conditions For Ration Card
Now, under the new rules, annual income limits of the family applying for ration cards have been revised. This limit has been fixed at ₹1.20 lakh for rural areas and ₹1.50 lakh per annum for urban areas. Apart from this, there is also a special exemption under the provisions of the government that has been kept for widows, senior citizens, and Divyangs.
Improvement In Application Process
Ration cards can henceforth be obtained through the online application process alone. Linking Aadhaar card and bank account must become mandatory to eliminate all prospects of fraud in the system. The new system keeps real-time tracking of the status of the application and will complete the process within 15 days.
New Changes In Ration Distribution
As per new provisions, now every ration card holder would get 7 kg of grain per person instead of the earlier quantity of 5 kg of rice/wheat. Along with that, the amount of salt and sugar has also been increased. The government has considered this decision under the perspective of rising inflation.
Biometric Verification Mandatory
To prevent fraud, biometric verification through fingerprint or iris scan will now be a requirement at every ration shop. This is to stop illegal diversion of the ration and ensure that only the right beneficiaries will be helped.
Penalty For Violating New Rules
A fine of up to ₹ 10,000 or jail term of up to 6 months shall be the penalty for anyone getting a ration card through furnishing incorrect information or keeping more than one card. The ration card of such persons shall also be immediately canceled.
Procedure To Update Old Card
Owners of old ration cards will have to get their cards updated in the new system by December 31, 2025. For that, one will have to visit the local ration department office for Aadhaar and other documents verification.
Conclusion
Any beneficiary of the ration card must necessarily know about the new rules. Get your card rectified in time, and in case of doubt, please consult the local food department. These changes have been brought into regard to having even greater transparency in the public distribution system of this country.
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