Government Makes Ration Card e-KYC Mandatory – Here’s How You Can Complete It at Home in Just 5 Minutes
The government has announced a new and important rule for all ration card holders under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). From now on, only those individuals who have updated their electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC) details will be eligible to receive subsidized or free food grains under the scheme. This new rule aims to eliminate fake beneficiaries and ensure that the benefits of the ration distribution system reach only the genuine and deserving families.
Why e-KYC Has Become Mandatory
Over the years, the government noticed that several people were availing ration benefits illegally using fake or duplicate ration cards. To curb such irregularities, the mandatory e-KYC rule has been introduced. This digital verification process helps link each ration card with the holder’s Aadhaar card, ensuring transparency and authenticity in the distribution system.
Moreover, the government has made it clear that e-KYC will now be compulsory every five years. Many cardholders last completed this process in 2013, which means they are now required to update it again. The government has simplified the process to make it easy for people to complete e-KYC from the comfort of their homes using a smartphone.
Step-by-Step Guide to Complete Ration Card e-KYC Online
Here’s how you can update your ration card e-KYC in just five minutes without visiting any government office:
-
Download the Apps: Start by downloading the Mera KYC and Aadhaar FaceRD apps on your smartphone.
-
Enter Your Location: Open the Mera KYC app and allow location access.
-
Provide Aadhaar Details: Enter your Aadhaar number and the CAPTCHA code displayed on the screen.
-
OTP Verification: You will receive a one-time password (OTP) on your registered mobile number. Enter the OTP to verify your identity.
-
Face e-KYC Process: Select the Face e-KYC option. The app will automatically activate your camera.
-
Capture and Submit: Follow the on-screen instructions to capture your face and tap Submit.
-
Completion: Once submitted, your e-KYC process will be completed successfully.
How to Check Your e-KYC Status
After completing the process, you can easily verify whether your e-KYC has been updated successfully or not.
-
Reopen the Mera KYC app and re-enter your Aadhaar number, location, and OTP.
-
If the screen displays Status: Y, it means your e-KYC has been successfully completed.
-
If it shows Status: N, the process is still incomplete, and you will need to try again or contact your local ration center.
Offline e-KYC Option Also Available
For those who face difficulty using mobile apps or online platforms, the government has also provided an offline alternative. Cardholders can visit their nearest ration shop or Common Service Centre (CSC) to complete the process. You must carry your Aadhaar card and ration card with you. The authorized officer at the center will verify your identity and complete the e-KYC process on your behalf.
Why It’s Important to Complete e-KYC Soon
If you haven’t updated your ration card e-KYC yet, it’s important to do so immediately. Failing to complete this verification could lead to temporary suspension of your ration benefits, meaning you won’t be able to receive free or subsidized food grains until the process is completed.
The government’s latest move is a significant step toward improving efficiency and transparency in the public distribution system. With this mandatory e-KYC rule, the government aims to ensure that every eligible citizen gets their rightful share of ration benefits while reducing misuse of public resources.
In short, whether you prefer doing it online through a mobile app or offline at your nearest CSC center, completing your e-KYC process is quick, simple, and absolutely essential to continue availing the benefits of the NFSA scheme.
