ration card is an essential document in India, helping citizens get subsidized food under the Public Distribution System (PDS). Maharashtra Government has introduced ration card online services for easy access to benefits. Citizens can now apply, update, and check their ration card status online. Additionally, linking ration card with Aadhaar has become mandatory for eligibility in government schemes.
Types of Ration Card in Maharashtra & Benefits
| Ration Card Type | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) Ration Card | 35 kg of food grains per month for extremely poor families |
| Priority Household (PHH) Ration Card | 5 kg of food grains per person per month |
| Below Poverty Line (BPL) Ration Card | Special discounts on government schemes |
| Above Poverty Line (APL) Ration Card | Subsidized grains for middle-income families |
| Farmer Ration Card (APL Farmer) | Special benefits for farmers in suicide-affected districts |
How to Apply for Ration Card Online?
- Visit the official website – mahafood.gov.in
- Select “Apply for Ration Card Online”
- Fill out the application form with required details
- Upload the necessary documents
- Submit the application and receive an acknowledgment number
- Track the status of your ration card online
How to Check Ration Card Status Online?
- Go to the Maharashtra Food Department website – mahafood.gov.in
- Click on “Ration Card Status Check Online”
- Enter your ration card number or acknowledgment number
- View the current status of your ration card application
Ration Card Correction Online Process
- Login to the official portal – mahafood.gov.in
- Go to “Ration Card Correction Online” section
- Enter ration card details and select the correction type
- Upload supporting documents for correction
- Submit the request and track the update online
How to Link Ration Card with Aadhaar Online?
- Visit UIDAI website – uidai.gov.in
- Select “Ration Card & Aadhaar Card Link” option
- Enter your ration card and Aadhaar details
- Verify with OTP sent to your registered mobile number
- Complete the linking process successfully
🚨 Note: If you do not link your ration card with Aadhaar, you may not receive government benefits.
Required Documents for Ration Card Application
- Aadhaar Card (for all family members)
- Residential Proof (Electricity Bill, Gas Connection, etc.)
- Income Certificate (For PHH & AAY Categories)
- Passport Size Photograph
- Old Ration Card (If applicable)
Eligibility Criteria for Maharashtra Ration Card
- Applicant must be a permanent resident of Maharashtra
- Income criteria vary based on ration card type
- Priority is given to economically weaker sections and farmers
- Aadhaar linking is mandatory for availing ration benefits
How to Link a Ration Card with Aadhaar via SMS
Follow these steps to link your Ration Card with Aadhaar through SMS:
- In the text field, enter the following format:
“UID SEED <Scheme/Program Short Code> <Scheme/Program ID> “
Example:UID SEED MH POSC 9876543 123478789012 - Send this message to 51969.
- You will receive updates on the status, including receipt confirmation, verification progress, and successful linking.
How to Check if Your Ration Card is Linked to Aadhaar
Follow these steps to verify the Aadhaar-Ration Card linkage:
- Download & Install the ‘Mera Ration’ app from the Play Store.
- Open the app and select ‘Aadhaar Seeding’ from the menu.
- Enter your Ration Card Number in the designated field.
- Click ‘Submit’ to check the linking status.
By completing these steps, you can confirm and manage your Aadhaar-Ration Card linkage easily.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. How long does it take to get a ration card?
It usually takes 15-30 days for a new ration card to be issued.
2. What to do if my ration card is lost?
Apply for a duplicate ration card at the district supply office or through the online portal.
3. Can I check my ration card details online?
Yes, visit mahafood.gov.in and select “Check Ration Card Status Online”.
4. Is it necessary to link Aadhaar with the ration card?
Yes, ration card and Aadhaar card link is compulsory for availing benefits.
Conclusion
A ration card is a crucial document for availing subsidized food and government schemes. Maharashtra Government has made ration card online application, correction, and status check easy for citizens. Make sure to complete ration card and Aadhaar card link to avoid disruptions in benefits. If you haven’t applied yet, visit mahafood.gov.in and get your ration card Maharashtra 2025 today!