Ration Card Alert: e-KYC Mandatory Before February 28 to Continue Free Ration

Ration card holders across the state have been asked to urgently update their details as the government tightens verification rules for free food grain distribution. Under the National Food Security Act, completing e-KYC (electronic Know Your Customer) has now become compulsory for all beneficiaries.
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Officials have made it clear that those who fail to complete their e-KYC by February 28 may face suspension of free ration benefits. The step is part of a broader effort to make the Public Distribution System (PDS) more transparent and targeted.

Why Is e-KYC Being Made Compulsory?

The government’s primary objective is to eliminate duplicate and fake beneficiaries from the ration database. By linking Aadhaar with ration cards, officials can verify identities more accurately and prevent misuse of subsidised food grains.


This step is aimed at:


  • Ensuring transparency in the ration distribution system
  • Removing ineligible or fraudulent entries
  • Making sure benefits reach poor and deserving families
  • Strengthening the digital monitoring of PDS operations

Officials have stated that the system will become cleaner and more efficient once Aadhaar authentication is completed for all beneficiaries.

What Happens If You Don’t Complete e-KYC?

If e-KYC is not updated before the deadline, ration distribution under the scheme may be temporarily stopped. This could create inconvenience for families who depend on free food grains every month.


To avoid disruption, beneficiaries are advised to complete the process at the earliest rather than waiting until the final days.

How to Complete e-KYC Online

The online process is simple, quick, and completely free of cost. Follow these steps:

  • Visit the official website of your state’s Food and Civil Supplies Department (PDS portal).
  • Select the ‘Link Aadhaar with Ration Card’ or ‘e-KYC’ option.
  • Enter your ration card number and Aadhaar number.
  • An OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to the mobile number linked with Aadhaar.
  • Enter the OTP to complete verification.
  • A confirmation message will appear once the process is successful.

Make sure your mobile number is correctly linked with Aadhaar to receive the OTP smoothly.

Offline Method: Visit Your Nearest Ration Shop

For those who are not comfortable using online services or do not have internet access, the offline method is equally simple:


  • Visit your nearest ration (PDS) shop.
  • Carry photocopies of your ration card and Aadhaar cards of all family members listed on the card.
  • The dealer will collect biometric verification (thumb impression) through an e-POS machine.
  • Your e-KYC will be updated instantly.

Even beneficiaries living outside their native village or city can complete Aadhaar authentication at the nearest ration centre.

Focus on Antyodaya and Priority Beneficiaries


In the Bhabua sub-division area alone, there are 1,69,000 registered ration card holders.

  • 20,905 beneficiaries are covered under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana.
  • 1,38,174 beneficiaries fall under the priority category.

Antyodaya cards are issued to the poorest households, including landless labourers, daily wage earners, rickshaw pullers, and economically vulnerable families. Ensuring their records are updated is essential so that they continue receiving uninterrupted food support.

Act Now to Avoid Inconvenience

With the February 28 deadline fast approaching, authorities have urged all ration card holders to complete their e-KYC without delay. Waiting until the last minute may lead to heavy rush at ration shops or technical issues online.

To continue receiving free ration benefits smoothly, verify your Aadhaar details and complete the process as soon as possible. Staying proactive today can prevent unnecessary disruption tomorrow.