A ration card is an essential document for families in Bihar, providing access to subsidized food grains, kerosene, and other necessities through the Public Distribution System (PDS). It helps households manage the rising cost of living by offering rice, wheat, sugar, and more at lower prices from fair price shops. Beyond food security, a ration card serves as a valid identity proof for various government services, school admissions, and bank account openings. In 2025, the Bihar government has streamlined the process, allowing families to apply for a new ration card online through the RTPS (Right to Public Services) portal, making it more accessible and efficient.
This guide explains everything about applying for a new ration card in Bihar. It covers eligibility criteria, required documents, the step-by-step online application process, how to track the application status, and the benefits of having a ration card. The information is designed to help families in Bihar navigate the process easily and secure the benefits they are entitled to under the scheme.
Understanding the Importance of a Ration Card in Bihar
A ration card plays a vital role in ensuring food security for families across Bihar. Through the PDS, it allows households to purchase essential items at subsidized rates, which is especially helpful for those struggling with the high cost of food in the open market. The items available at fair price shops include rice, wheat, sugar, and kerosene, with quantities and prices varying based on the type of ration card issued.
In addition to providing affordable food, a ration card serves as an official document for identity and address verification. It can be used to apply for other government schemes, access healthcare benefits, or enroll children in schools. In Bihar, ration cards are categorized into three types based on income and economic status.
APL (Above Poverty Line): Issued to families with an annual income above ₹1,00,000, offering limited subsidies.
BPL (Below Poverty Line): For families earning less than ₹1,00,000 per year, providing higher subsidies on food grains.
AAY (Antyodaya Anna Yojana): For the most economically disadvantaged households, such as those with no stable income, offering the maximum benefits.
The Bihar government in 2025 is focusing on ensuring more families can access these benefits by simplifying the application process through an online system, reducing the need for multiple visits to government offices.
Eligibility Criteria for a New Ration Card
To apply for a new ration card in Bihar, certain conditions must be met to ensure the benefits reach the right households. The eligibility requirements are straightforward and focus on residency and need. Here are the key criteria:
The applicant must be a permanent resident of Bihar with a valid address in the state.
The household should not already possess a ration card. If a previous card was canceled or the family has relocated, a new application can be submitted.
The scheme prioritizes families with limited access to food, particularly those below the poverty line or eligible for the Antyodaya Anna Yojana category.
A new ration card can also be applied for if there are changes in the family structure, such as a marriage, the birth of a child, or a change in the head of the family.
The type of ration card—APL, BPL, or AAY—is determined by the Food and Consumer Protection Department based on the applicant’s income, family size, and economic status during the verification process.
Documents Required for the Application
Submitting the correct documents is a crucial part of the application process for a new ration card. These documents help verify the applicant’s identity, address, and eligibility. Below is a list of the necessary documents:
Aadhaar cards of all family members to be included on the ration card.
A recent passport-sized photograph of the head of the family.
Proof of address, such as an electricity bill, voter ID card, or rent agreement for rented accommodations.
Proof of identity, which can be a voter ID, PAN card, or driving license.
For BPL or AAY applications, proof of income may be required, such as a certificate from the Gram Panchayat or inclusion in the BPL list.
An active mobile number to receive updates and notifications about the application.
Ensuring that all documents are clear and accurate is important to avoid delays. Scanned copies or photographs of these documents will need to be uploaded during the online application, so they should be legible and properly formatted.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply Online
The Bihar government has introduced an online application system through the RTPS portal, making it convenient for families to apply for a new ration card without visiting multiple offices. The process can be completed using a smartphone, computer, or at a cyber café. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps:
1.Access the RTPS Portal: Open a web browser and visit the official RTPS Bihar website. The URL typically ends in “bihar.gov.in” to confirm its authenticity. Searching “RTPS Bihar” on a search engine will usually display the correct link as the top result.
2.Locate the Ration Card Service: On the portal’s homepage, a list of services will be displayed. Navigate to the section for the “Food and Consumer Protection Department” and select the option labeled “Apply for a New Ration Card” or a similar phrase.
3.Enter Family Details: The application form will require information about the household. Start by providing the head of the family’s name, Aadhaar number, and mobile number. Then, include details of all family members, such as their names, ages, and Aadhaar numbers. Additional information, like the family’s address, annual income, and preferred ration card type (APL, BPL, or AAY), will also need to be filled in.
4.Upload Necessary Documents: The form will have a section for uploading documents. Ensure the scanned copies or photographs of the Aadhaar cards, proof of address, head of the family’s photo, and other required documents are clear and readable. Upload them as per the portal’s instructions.
5.Review and Submit: Before submitting, review all the entered details and uploaded documents for accuracy. Once confirmed, click the “Submit” button. An application number or acknowledgment number will be generated, which should be noted down for future reference to track the application status.
6.Pay the Application Fee (if Applicable): Some applications may require a nominal fee, typically between ₹10 and ₹50, which can be paid online using a debit card, credit card, or net banking. If no fee is required, a confirmation message will appear indicating successful submission.
After submission, the application is sent to the Food and Consumer Protection Department for verification. The department may conduct a field visit to confirm the applicant’s address and family details, a process that can take a few weeks.
Tracking the Application Status
After applying, it’s possible to monitor the progress of the ration card application through the RTPS portal. This helps applicants stay informed about whether their application is under review, approved, or if further action is needed. Here’s how to check the status:
Return to the RTPS Bihar website.
Find the “Check Application Status” or “Track Your Application” option on the homepage.
Input the application number received during submission and the registered mobile number.
Click “Search” to view the current status of the application.
If the application is approved, instructions will be provided on how to download the ration card or collect it from the local block office. If there are issues, such as missing documents, the status will indicate the steps needed to resolve them.
Benefits of Having a Ration Card
Once the ration card is issued, it can be used to access a range of benefits through the PDS. The primary advantage is the ability to purchase subsidized food grains and other essentials from fair price shops. Depending on the type of ration card, the quantity and price of items vary:
APL cardholders receive a limited quota of food grains at slightly subsidized rates.
BPL cardholders are entitled to a larger quota, such as 5 kg of rice or wheat per person, at significantly lower prices.
AAY cardholders, being the most economically disadvantaged, receive the maximum benefits, often up to 35 kg of food grains per family at minimal cost.
Additionally, a ration card serves as a valid identity and address proof, which can be used for opening bank accounts, applying for government schemes, or enrolling children in schools. It also facilitates access to other welfare programs, such as healthcare benefits or subsidized cooking gas connections.
Using the Ration Card at Fair Price Shops
With a ration card in hand, families can visit their nearest fair price shop to collect their monthly quota of subsidized goods. The process is simple:
Take the ration card to the designated fair price shop in the area.
Present the card to the shopkeeper, who will verify the details and provide the allocated items, such as rice, wheat, sugar, or kerosene, based on the card type.
Ensure the quantities and prices match the government’s guidelines for the specific card category.
If there are discrepancies, such as receiving less than the entitled amount, the issue can be reported to the Food and Consumer Protection Department or the local block office for resolution.
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
To ensure the application process goes smoothly, certain precautions can be taken to avoid delays or rejections:
Verify that the Aadhaar details match the information on other documents to prevent discrepancies during verification.
Use an active mobile number to receive SMS updates about the application status.
If applying online is challenging, assistance can be sought from a cyber café or a local Common Service Centre (CSC).
Provide accurate information about income and family details to avoid rejection due to incorrect data.
Updates on Ration Card Services in Bihar for 2025
In 2025, the Bihar government continues to improve access to ration card services. The RTPS portal has been updated to handle a larger volume of applications, ensuring faster processing times. Additionally, helplines and support centers have been established to assist applicants who face difficulties with the online system. The government is also focusing on increasing awareness about the benefits of ration cards, encouraging more families to apply and take advantage of the PDS.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible to apply for a new ration card in Bihar?
Permanent residents of Bihar without an existing ration card can apply, with priority given to BPL and AAY category families.
2. What documents are needed for the application?
Aadhaar cards of all family members, a photo of the head of the family, proof of address, proof of identity, income proof for BPL/AAY categories, and an active mobile number are required.
3. How can a new ration card be applied for online?
Visit the RTPS Bihar website, select the ration card application option, fill in the family details, upload documents, and submit the form.
4. How can the application status be checked?
Go to the RTPS portal, select “Check Application Status,” enter the application number and mobile number, and view the update.
5. What benefits does a ration card provide?
It allows the purchase of subsidized food grains, sugar, and kerosene from fair price shops and serves as identity proof for other government services.
6. Is there an application fee for a ration card?
A small fee, typically ₹10 to ₹50, may be required, payable online, though some applications are free based on the category.
Conclusion
A ration card is a valuable resource for families in Bihar, providing access to affordable food and essential items through the PDS. The online application process in 2025, facilitated by the RTPS portal, has made it easier for households to apply and secure these benefits. By preparing the required documents, following the application steps, and tracking the status, families can ensure they receive their ration card without delays. Applying for a new ration card can help alleviate the financial burden of food costs and open doors to additional government support, making it a worthwhile step for eligible households in Bihar.
