To receive subsidized food under the Public Distribution System (PDS) in 2025, it is mandatory for all ration cardholders to complete their e-KYC (electronic Know Your Customer). The Department of Food and Public Distribution has set a deadline of June 30, 2025, for states to ensure that all Aadhaar-based e-KYC processes are completed.
Why is Ration Card e-KYC Mandatory?
The e-KYC process is crucial for the government’s goal of ensuring that food subsidies reach only eligible beneficiaries. By linking the Aadhaar card to the ration card, the system can:
- Accurately identify eligible families.
- Eliminate fake or duplicate ration cards.
- Strengthen the “One Nation, One Ration Card” framework, allowing beneficiaries to get their ration from any fair price shop in the country.
Failure to complete the e-KYC by the deadline may lead to the ration card being temporarily suspended or permanently deactivated.
How to Complete Ration Card e-KYC
The e-KYC process can be done both online and offline, though online options may vary by state. The primary document required for this process is your Aadhaar card. No other documents are needed as the e-KYC is based on Aadhaar authentication.
1. Offline Process:
This is the most common method and is available to all beneficiaries.
- Visit your nearest Fair Price Shop (FPS).
- Request the dealer to initiate the e-KYC process using their e-POS machine.
- Provide your biometrics (fingerprint or iris scan) for verification. Once the biometrics are verified, your e-KYC will be complete.
2. Online Process (if available in your state):
- Go to the official Public Distribution System (PDS) portal of your state government.
- Look for the e-KYC section, which is usually under “Ration Card Services,” “e-Services,” or “Update Details.”
- Enter your Aadhaar number and the ration card number.
- Verify your identity using an OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number. Once verified, your e-KYC will be updated.