The Bihar Ration Card is an essential document issued by the state government of Bihar, India, to households in need of subsidised food grains and fuel under the Public Distribution System (PDS). This card serves as proof of identification and also enables access to various social welfare schemes. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of applying for a Bihar Ration Card in 2021.
Understanding the Types of Bihar Ration Cards
There are three types of ration cards available in Bihar:
Antyodaya (AAY) Ration Cards
- These are issued to the poorest of the poor families.
- They are eligible for additional benefits under various government schemes.
Below Poverty Line (BPL) Ration Cards
- Issued to families living marginally above the poverty line.
- These cardholders receive benefits under different schemes.
Above Poverty Line (APL) Ration Cards
- Issued to families that are not eligible for AAY or BPL cards.
- These households can purchase non-subsidised items from the ration shops.
Eligibility Criteria for Bihar Ration Card
To be eligible for a Bihar Ration Card, the following criteria must be met:
- The applicant must be a resident of Bihar.
- The applicant’s family must not already possess a ration card.
- The applicant’s family income should fall within the prescribed limits.
Documents Required for Bihar Ration Card Application
Before applying for a Bihar Ration Card, ensure that you have the following documents handy:
- Proof of identity: Aadhar card, PAN card, Voter ID, Driving License, Passport, etc.
- Proof of residence: Voter ID, utility bills, passport, lease agreement, etc.
- Income certificate: If required as per the norms.
- Passport-sized photographs of the head of the family.
- Bank account details: Including the bank’s name, branch, and IFSC code.
Steps to Apply for Bihar Ration Card
Follow these steps to apply for a Bihar Ration Card in 2021:
Step 1: Obtain the Application Form
- Visit the nearest Public Distribution System (PDS) centre or the official website of the Food and Civil Supplies Department, Bihar, to obtain the application form.
Step 2: Fill in the Form Correctly
- Provide all the necessary details in the application form accurately.
- Attach the required documents along with the filled-in form.
Step 3: Submit the Application
- Submit the completed application form along with the documents to the respective authorities at the PDS centre.
Step 4: Verification
- After submission, the authorities will conduct a verification process to validate the information provided in the application.
Step 5: Acknowledgment Slip
- Once the verification is complete, you will receive an acknowledgment slip with a unique application number.
Step 6: Issuance of Ration Card
- If your application is approved, the Bihar Ration Card will be issued to you within the stipulated time.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I apply for a Bihar Ration Card online?
Yes, the Bihar government provides the option to apply for a ration card online through the official website of the Food and Civil Supplies Department.
2. Is it necessary to have a bank account to apply for a Bihar Ration Card?
While having a bank account is not mandatory, providing bank account details can facilitate direct benefit transfers under various government schemes.
3. How long does it take to process a Bihar Ration Card application?
The processing time may vary, but generally, it takes around 15-30 days for the application to be processed, verified, and approved.
4. Can I apply for multiple ration cards for different family members?
No, each family is entitled to only one ration card, which includes all the family members.
5. What should I do if there is an error in my Bihar Ration Card?
In case of errors in the ration card, you can approach the respective authorities at the PDS centre for corrections.
Conclusion
Applying for a Bihar Ration Card is a simple process that can provide significant assistance to eligible households. By following the steps outlined in this guide and ensuring that you meet the eligibility criteria and have the necessary documents, you can successfully apply for a Bihar Ration Card in 2021. Access to subsidised food grains and fuel can help alleviate financial burdens and improve the quality of life for many families in Bihar.