Andhra Pradesh has recently implemented changes to its ration card system, particularly benefiting newly married couples. These revisions aim to streamline the application process and ensure easier access to food security and welfare schemes.
Easing the Application Process for Newlyweds
In a significant update, the Andhra Pradesh government, under the Chandrababu-led coalition, has removed the mandatory requirement of a marriage certificate for newly married couples applying for a new ration card or splitting an existing one. Minister Nadendla Manohar announced this change, which is expected to significantly reduce the bureaucratic burden on young couples. Previously, providing a marriage certificate was essential for splitting ration cards when individuals moved out of a joint family setup. Now, applicants can simply provide basic identity and residency documents at their local Grama or Ward Secretariat or through the Jana Mitra WhatsApp Governance service.
How to Apply
The application process for new ration cards and splitting existing ones has been simplified. Residents can visit their local Grama or Ward Secretariat, provide the necessary identity and residency documents, or use the Jana Mitra WhatsApp Governance service for added convenience. The application process in AP officially began on May 8, 2025. Citizens can access ration card services through the Jana Mitra WhatsApp Governance platform by sending a "Hello" message to 9552300009.
Smart Ration Cards and Enhanced Security
The Andhra Pradesh government is issuing new smart ration cards to Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. These cards resemble ATM cards and come with enhanced security features, including a QR code. The smart cards will display only the names of the cardholders and offer options to add or remove family members and split card options. The distribution of these new smart cards will commence in May 2025 after the completion of e-KYC on April 30, 2025.
Mandatory e-KYC and Welfare Schemes
The Andhra Pradesh government has made it mandatory for all citizens with ration cards to complete the e-KYC process. Those who fail to complete the e-KYC will not receive essential items from the Public Distribution System (PDS). The e-KYC process can be completed online or offline by visiting the nearest Fair Price Shop (FPS). The primary objective of the e-KYC is to identify genuine beneficiaries and eliminate those who do not require rations. Holding a rice card is now mandatory to participate in Super Six welfare initiatives and other government schemes. The government took steps to provide rice cards free of cost in the form of smart cards in June.
Additional Benefits for Ration Card Holders
The government is set to provide nutritional pulses and cereals through the Public Distribution System (PDS) to economically backward families starting June 1, 2025. This initiative aims to improve public health by distributing subsidized pulses, millet, and free ragi across all ration shops in the state. Ration cardholders who currently receive 20 kg of rice can opt to receive 2 kg of ragi instead, with the rice quota adjusted accordingly. Andhra Pradesh has over 1.46 crore ration cardholders, all of whom will benefit from this scheme.
These changes reflect the Andhra Pradesh government's commitment to improving the efficiency and accessibility of its food security programs, ensuring that eligible residents, especially newly married couples, can easily access essential commodities and welfare benefits.
