Table Of Content
- What Details Does a Ration Card Contain?
- What are the Different Types of Ration Cards?
- What are the Reasons to Change Name in the Ration Card?
- What Documents Do I Need to Change My Name in the Ration Card?
- What is the Process of Changing Name in the Ration Card?
- How Much Does It Cost to Change the Name in the Ration Card?
- Conclusion
How to Change Name in Ration Card?
A ration card is one of the most essential government-issued documents in India. It serves as proof of identity and residency while allowing eligible citizens to avail themselves of subsidized food and essential commodities from the Public Distribution System (PDS). However, there are times when you might need to update details on your ration card, such as your name. Whether due to marriage, a spelling mistake, or legal name change, updating your name on the ration card is a straightforward process. In this blog, we will walk you through the entire process of changing your name in a ration card, including the necessary documents, application forms, costs, and procedures.
What Details Does a Ration Card Contain?
A ration card contains vital details about the cardholder and their family members. These include:
- Name of the head of the family
- Names of other family members
- Address
- Date of birth of family members
- Category of the ration card (APL, BPL, Antyodaya, etc.)
- Monthly entitlement of food grains
- Unique identification number
- Government seal and issuing authority details
If any of these details need to be corrected or updated, it is important to initiate the change as soon as possible to avoid issues in availing benefits.
What are the Different Types of Ration Cards?
In India, ration cards are issued based on economic status and eligibility criteria. The primary types include:
- Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) Ration Card: For the poorest of the poor, offering the maximum subsidy on food grains.
- Below Poverty Line (BPL) Ration Card: Issued to families living below the poverty line, providing subsidized food.
- Above Poverty Line (APL) Ration Card: Issued to families above the poverty line but still eligible for limited benefits.
- Priority Household (PHH) Ration Card: Provided under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) to eligible households based on government criteria.
Regardless of the type of ration card you have, the procedure to update your name remains largely the same.
What are the Reasons to Change Name in the Ration Card?
There are several reasons why a person might need to initiate a ration card name change:
- A woman may need to update her last name or change her surname after marriage.
- Incorrect spelling of names can lead to issues in availing government benefits.
- Due to personal choice, numerology, or religious conversion.
- Women may wish to revert to their maiden name.
- Children who are adopted or under legal guardianship may require a name change.
What Documents Do I Need to Change My Name in the Ration Card?
Before applying for a ration card name change, ensure you have the following documents:
- Ration card name change application form (available online or at the local ration office)
- Affidavit for name change (notarized affidavit stating the reason for the name change)
- Proof of name change, such as:
- Marriage certificate (for name change after marriage)
- Gazette notification (for legal name change)
- Divorce decree (if reverting to maiden name)
- Adoption papers (for adopted children)
- Identity proof (Aadhaar card, voter ID, PAN card, or passport with the updated name)
- Address proof (Electricity bill, water bill, Aadhaar card, or rental agreement)
- Passport-size photographs (as required by the state authority)
- Self-declaration letter stating the request for a name change
What is the Process of Changing Name in the Ration Card?
The process for a ration card name change can be completed both online and offline, depending on the state.
Online Process:
- Visit the official website of your stateβs Food and Civil Supplies Department.
- Login or register using your credentials.
- Download the ration card name change form or fill it out online.
- Upload the necessary documents such as the affidavit, marriage certificate, or Gazette notification.
- Submit the application and note the reference number.
- Track your application through the online portal.
- Verification by officials will take place, after which the updated ration card will be issued.
Offline Process:
- Visit the nearest ration office in your jurisdiction.
- Collect the ration card name change form or download it beforehand.
- Fill out the form correctly and attach the required documents.
- Submit the application along with self-attested copies of documents.
- Receive an acknowledgment slip for future tracking.
- Officials will verify the documents and details, and once approved, the updated ration card will be issued.
The processing time can vary from 7 to 30 days, depending on the state and the verification process.
How Much Does It Cost to Change the Name in the Ration Card?
The cost of a ration card name change is minimal. While the government processing fee is typically between βΉ50 to βΉ200, additional charges may apply if you are getting a notarized affidavit or a Gazette notification. Some states offer free updates under specific schemes, so it is advisable to check with your local ration office for exact charges.
Conclusion
Updating your name on your ration card is a simple yet essential process to ensure you continue to receive government benefits without any hassles. Whether you opt for the ration card name change online method or visit the ration office physically, having the necessary documents and following the correct process can save you time and effort. Keeping your ration card details accurate is crucial for availing PDS benefits, and with the right steps, you can easily update your name whenever required. If you want to know more about the steps and procedures, book your consultation today at eDrafters.com.