Bihar Ration Card Online Application Form 2022

Bihar Ration Card Online Application Form 2022 – A Complete Guide

Introduction

A Ration Card is more than just a document; for millions of Indians, especially those in economically weaker sections, it is a lifeline. It enables access to essential commodities such as rice, wheat, sugar, and kerosene at subsidized rates through the Public Distribution System (PDS). Recognizing the importance of transparency and accessibility, the Government of Bihar launched an online application system for Ration Cards in 2022.

This blog will guide you through the complete process of applying for a Bihar Ration Card online, including eligibility, documentation, application steps, correction process, and much more.

What is a Ration Card?

A Ration Card is an official document issued by the state government that allows households to purchase subsidized food grains and other essentials from the fair price shops (FPS) under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). It also acts as a proof of identity and residence, and is often used in other documentation processes like applying for voter ID, Aadhar card, and government schemes.

Why is a Ration Card Important?

A Ration Card serves several crucial functions:

• Access to Subsidized Food: Provides food and fuel at lower prices through government schemes.

• Proof of Identity: Acts as a government-recognized ID proof.

• Essential for Government Schemes: Needed for availing benefits under schemes like PM Awas Yojana, Ayushman Bharat, Ujjwala Yojana, etc.

• Family Record Document: Acts as an official record of the family members residing together.

Types of Ration Cards in Bihar

In Bihar, Ration Cards are classified into several categories based on income level and eligibility under NFSA:

1. APL (Above Poverty Line) Card

• For families with income above the poverty line.

• May not be eligible for full subsidy under NFSA.

2. BPL (Below Poverty Line) Card

• For economically weaker families falling below the poverty line.

• Entitled to full subsidy on food grains.

3. Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) Card

• For the poorest among the BPL families.

• These families receive 35 kg of food grains per month.

4. PHH (Priority Household) Card

• Issued under NFSA to households identified by the state government.

• Receives 5 kg of food grains per family member per month.

Eligibility Criteria for Bihar Ration Card 2022

To be eligible for a Bihar Ration Card, the applicant must fulfill the following criteria:

• Must be a resident of Bihar.

• Must not already possess a Ration Card (for new applications).

• Income level should match the category of the card being applied for (APL/BPL/PHH/AAY).

• Must provide authentic and verifiable documents.

Income Criteria:

Documents Required for Bihar Ration Card Application

Ensure that the following documents are ready before applying:

1. Proof of Identity (any one of the following):

   • Aadhaar Card

   • Voter ID

   • PAN Card

   • Driving License

2. Proof of Address:

   • Electricity Bill

   • Water Bill

   • Rental Agreement

   • Aadhaar Card (if address is updated)

3. Proof of Income:

   • Income Certificate

   • BPL/AAY/PHH eligibility certificate if applicable

4. Passport-sized photographs of all family members

5. Bank Passbook (for direct benefit transfers)

6. Caste Certificate (if applying under specific reserved category schemes)

How to Apply for Bihar Ration Card Online – Step-by-Step Guide

The Bihar government offers an online portal through which applicants can submit their Ration Card applications. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to the official Bihar State Food & Civil Supplies Corporation website:
🔗 epds.bihar.gov.in

Step 2: Register/Login

• Click on “Apply for Ration Card” or the RC Online Application link.

• If you are a new user, register with your mobile number and OTP.

• Already registered users can log in with credentials.

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

• Select your district, block, and village/town.

• Enter personal details like name, gender, date of birth, father's/husband's name, and mobile number.

• Enter family details: Add each member with Aadhaar number and relationship.

• Upload scanned copies of all required documents.

Step 4: Choose Ration Card Type

Select the appropriate ration card category (APL/BPL/PHH/AAY) based on eligibility and income.

Step 5: Submit the Form

• Review all details carefully before submission.

• Submit the form online.

• You will receive an acknowledgment number for tracking purposes.

How to Check Ration Card Status in Bihar

To check the status of your application:

1. Visit: epds.bihar.gov.in

2. Click on “Application Status” under the Public Reports section.

3. Enter your acknowledgment number or mobile number.

4. Click on Submit to view status updates.

How to Download Bihar Ration Card (PDF)

Once your application is approved:

1. Visit the official portal: epds.bihar.gov.in

2. Go to “RC Details” → Download Ration Card

3. Enter Ration Card number or registered mobile number.

4. Click on “Search” and then Download PDF.

How to Make Corrections in Bihar Ration Card

If there are any errors or changes needed (like name, age, address, etc.), follow these steps:

1. Visit the nearest CSC center (Common Service Center) or ration office.

2. Fill the correction form and attach supporting documents.

3. Submit it along with your original ration card.

4. You’ll receive a reference number to track correction status.

Alternatively, some corrections can also be requested online through the EPDS portal.

Ration Entitlement for Bihar Citizens

Depending on your card type, you are entitled to the following quantities and prices:

Note: Rates and quantity may vary from district to district or depending on central policies.

Benefits of Bihar Ration Card

• Subsidized Food Items through FPS (Fair Price Shops)

• Eligibility for Other Schemes: Housing, Health, Education, LPG, and more

• Serves as Identity Proof: For various official purposes

• Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT): Funds are directly credited into bank accounts

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Application

• Submitting duplicate applications

• Providing incorrect Aadhaar numbers

• Uploading blurred or wrong documents

• Not verifying mobile number properly

• Not selecting the right category

Always review the application before submission to avoid rejection or delays.

Offline Application for Bihar Ration Card (Alternative Option)

For citizens who face difficulty in accessing online services:

1. Visit the Nearest Circle Office or RTPS center.

2. Collect the Ration Card Application Form.

3. Fill out manually and attach photocopies of all required documents.

4. Submit at the office and collect a receipt.

The processing time for offline applications may be longer than online.

Contact Information – Helpline & Support

• Toll-Free Number: 1800-3456-194

• Email: secy-fcs@bihar.gov.in

• Department Website: fcp.bih.nic.in

• EPDS Portal: epds.bihar.gov.in

Final words 

The Bihar Ration Card Online Application process initiated in 2022 has brought tremendous convenience to citizens. Now, people don’t need to visit government offices repeatedly or stand in long queues. With just a smartphone and internet access, anyone eligible can apply for a Ration Card from the comfort of their home.