How to Easily Download Your Ration Card Online in India: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Ration cards continue to be one of the most important documents for households in India, granting access to subsidised food grains and other government welfare benefits. With digitisation, the process of downloading an e-ration card has become seamless and can now be done entirely online. In 2025, beneficiaries can easily download their ration card using Aadhaar, mobile number, ration card number, DigiLocker, or the Mera Ration App. This guide explains how to download a ration card online, state PDS portal links, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Key Highlights of Ration Card Download in 2025
- Issuing Authority: Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Department of each state/UT
- Application Mode: Online (via state PDS portals) and offline (ration office)
- Download Options: State PDS websites, DigiLocker, and Mera Ration App
- Login Methods: Aadhaar number, ration card number, or registered mobile number
- Format: PDF file, valid as a digital copy for PDS benefits
- Validity: The e-ration card is as valid as the physical copy at fair price shops
What is Ration Card Download?
Ration card download is the process of obtaining a digital copy of your ration card online. This e-ration card is issued in PDF format and can be used just like the physical card to avail subsidised food grains under the Public Distribution System (PDS). Beneficiaries no longer need to visit ration offices physically to get a copy, as the card is available instantly online.How to Download Ration Card Online?
The online ration card download process is similar across most state PDS portals. Here are the general steps:- Visit the official PDS website of your state.
- Go to the ‘e-Services’ section and select ‘e-Ration Card’ or ‘Download Ration Card’.
- Enter your ration card number and verify with OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
- Fill in your details such as name, Aadhaar, date of birth, and email.
- Once verified, select ‘Download/Print Ration Card’.
- Your ration card will be available in PDF format.
How to Download Ration Card by Aadhaar Number
- Visit your state’s Civil Supplies Department website.
- Click on ‘Download Ration Card’ option.
- Enter your Aadhaar number and captcha code.
- Authenticate with OTP.
- Download the ration card linked to your Aadhaar.
How to Download Ration Card by Mobile Number
- Visit the PDS website of your state.
- Select ‘e-Ration Card’ option.
- Enter your mobile number and ration card number.
- Authenticate via OTP.
- Download the ration card in PDF format.
How to Download Ration Card through Mera Ration App
- Download the Mera Ration App from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Log in with your Aadhaar number and OTP.
- The ration card linked to your Aadhaar will appear.
- Click ‘Download’ to save it as a PDF.
How to Download Ration Card through DigiLocker
- Install or open the DigiLocker app.
- Register with your name, mobile number, and date of birth.
- Enter OTP to activate your account.
- Go to ‘Issued Documents’ → Food & Civil Supplies Department of your state.
- Select ‘Ration Card’, enter your card number, and verify.
- The ration card will be saved under your DigiLocker account for download anytime.
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