As part of the government’s efforts to ensure transparency and remove duplicate or fake ration cards, the Ration Card eKYC Update 2025 has been made mandatory for all eligible families. Whether you are from a rural area or an urban center, if you hold a ration card under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), you must complete the eKYC (electronic Know Your Customer) update to continue receiving subsidized food grains.
In this detailed blog post, we will cover:
- What eKYC means for ration card holders
- The deadline for 2025
- Step-by-step process (online & offline)
- Required documents
- Common mistakes and how to fix them
🔍 What is Ration Card eKYC?
eKYC stands for Electronic Know Your Customer. It is a digital verification process using Aadhaar card and biometric authentication. The purpose of eKYC in ration card services is to:
- Link Aadhaar numbers of all family members
- Eliminate duplicate, fake, or ineligible cards
- Ensure only deserving citizens receive subsidized food grains
By updating eKYC, you help the government ensure food security for genuine families and streamline the One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) system.
📅 What is the Deadline for Ration Card eKYC in 2025?
The last date to update Ration Card eKYC in most states is expected to fall between March and June 2025. However, it varies by state, so it’s important to check announcements from your respective state’s Food and Civil Supplies Department or local ration office.
Failure to complete eKYC by the deadline may result in:
- Suspension or cancellation of ration card
- Stoppage of subsidized food grain supply
- Ineligibility for other linked welfare schemes
🛠️ How to Complete Ration Card eKYC: Step-by-Step Process
You can complete your Ration Card eKYC both online and offline, depending on your state’s digital infrastructure.
🔹 Option 1: Online eKYC Process
Most states now allow eKYC through their official PDS portal. Here’s how:
- Visit your state’s PDS website
(For example: epds.bihar.gov.in, nfsa.gov.in, tnpds.gov.in — depending on your state) - Login using your ration card number or registered mobile number.
- Select ‘Ration Card eKYC’ or ‘Aadhaar Seeding’ option.
- Enter Aadhaar number of the head of the household and other members.
- An OTP will be sent to the Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
- Verify OTP and submit the form.
- Once submitted, your eKYC will be pending verification.
✅ Some portals allow face authentication or biometric verification through mobile app or at Fair Price Shops.
🔹 Option 2: Offline eKYC Process
If you live in a rural area or lack internet access, follow this offline method:
- Visit your nearest ration shop (FPS dealer) or block-level food office.
- Carry original Aadhaar cards of all family members.
- Submit your ration card details and request for eKYC Aadhaar seeding.
- The official will take your fingerprint/iris scan through a biometric machine.
- You’ll receive a receipt or SMS upon successful eKYC update.
📑 Documents Required for eKYC Update
Here is a list of documents you may need:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Ration Card | To identify your family and number |
| Aadhaar Card (All Members) | For linking and biometric eKYC |
| Registered Mobile Number | For OTP verification |
| Bank Account Passbook | In case of DBT or subsidy transfers |
| Birth Certificate (for minors) | If Aadhaar not available for kids under 5 |
| Photograph (passport size) | Occasionally required in rural centers |
🔔 Note: Make sure all Aadhaar cards are active and not under biometric lock.
⚠️ Common Mistakes During eKYC (and How to Fix Them)
Many ration card holders face issues due to minor errors. Here’s how to avoid or fix them:
- Name mismatch in Aadhaar and ration card
✅ Solution: Update name either in Aadhaar or PDS portal to match. - Aadhaar not linked with mobile number
✅ Solution: Visit Aadhaar enrollment center to update your mobile. - Inactive or suspended Aadhaar
✅ Solution: Get Aadhaar reactivated at the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra. - Biometric mismatch for senior citizens or workers
✅ Solution: Request for facial recognition authentication or use alternative KYC process (manual approval). - Multiple ration cards for one family
✅ Solution: Surrender the duplicate card. Only one family card is allowed per household.
🙋 FAQs on Ration Card eKYC Update 2025
Q1. Is eKYC mandatory for everyone?
Yes. eKYC is mandatory for all ration card holders—rural and urban. Without it, food subsidies will be blocked.
Q2. How will I know if my eKYC is successful?
You’ll receive an SMS or can check status on your state’s PDS portal.
Q3. Can I do eKYC for all family members together?
Yes. All members should ideally be present at the time of biometric eKYC (offline).
Q4. What if I missed the deadline?
Late submissions might be accepted during a grace period. Otherwise, you’ll have to reapply or visit local authorities.
📌 Final Words
The Ration Card eKYC Update 2025 is a necessary step for ensuring food security reaches only the rightful beneficiaries. If you or your family members haven’t completed the update yet, do so as early as possible—either online through the official portal or offline at your nearest ration shop or government center.
This simple step ensures that you continue receiving your monthly subsidized food grains without interruption and remain eligible for several other welfare schemes.
🗓️ Don’t wait for the last date. Complete your Ration Card eKYC today and secure your family’s benefits for tomorrow!