એ.પી.એલ માંથી બી.પી.એલ રેશનકાર્ડ બનાવો:Update Your Ration Card from APL to BPL in Gujarat

એ.પી.એલ માંથી બી.પી.એલ રેશનકાર્ડ બનાવો:Update Your Ration Card from APL to BPL in Gujarat

In India, the ration card is a critical document issued by the government that allows citizens to obtain essential commodities like food grains at subsidized rates. This system is a lifeline for many underprivileged families, ensuring they have access to the basic necessities of life. The ration card system is categorized into different types based on the economic status of the family, with Above Poverty Line (APL) and Below Poverty Line (BPL) being two primary categories. In 2024, the Gujarat government has streamlined the process of updating your ration card from APL to BPL, ensuring that those who qualify can access the benefits they deserve. This blog post will walk you through the process and provide all the necessary information to make this transition smoothly.

Understanding the Importance of Ration Cards

Ration cards play a pivotal role in the National Food Security Act (NFSA) of 2013, which was introduced to provide subsidized food grains to the economically weaker sections of society. The NFSA outlines specific guidelines for ration card eligibility and benefits, with BPL cardholders receiving more significant subsidies compared to APL cardholders. Given the essential nature of these benefits, updating your ration card from APL to BPL if you qualify is crucial for maximizing the support you receive.

Changes Under NFSA and the Significance of the Update

The NFSA brought new rules into effect in 2020, aiming to widen the reach of food security in India. During the period of 2020-2022, approximately 50 lakh people received new NFSA ration cards, highlighting the government’s commitment to ensuring that more citizens can access subsidized food. BPL ration cards, issued under the NFSA, offer more substantial benefits than non-NFSA cards, making it imperative for eligible families to update their status from APL to BPL.

Types of Ration Cards in Gujarat

Before proceeding with the update, it’s essential to understand the different types of ration cards available in Gujarat:

APL (Above Poverty Line):Issued to households living above the poverty line, as estimated by the Planning Commission.

BPL (Below Poverty Line): Issued to households living below the poverty line. These cards provide access to 25-35 kilograms of food grains per month.

Antyodaya (AAY): Targeted at the poorest of the poor, providing the maximum level of subsidized food grains.

PHH (Priority Household): For households that fall under the priority sector as per state-specific guidelines.

Non-NFSA: These are ration cards not covered under the NFSA but still provide limited benefits.

Eligibility Criteria for BPL Ration Card in Gujarat

To qualify for a BPL ration card, there are specific criteria you must meet:

Income Criteria 

The average per capita monthly income of the applicant’s family should be less than ₹324 in rural areas and less than ₹201 in urban areas (a family of five members is considered).

Land Ownership

The applicant should own less than one acre of land.

Employment

The applicant should be a farm laborer.

Survey Score

Beneficiaries with a score of 0 to 12 in the Rural Development Department’s survey and who have benefited under the Indira Awas Yojana are eligible.

Assets

The applicant should not own a car or motorcycle.

Meeting these criteria is essential to ensure that your application for a BPL ration card is accepted.

Documents Required for BPL Ration Card

When applying to update your ration card from APL to BPL, you must provide several documents to prove your eligibility:

• Proof of Date of Birth 
• Proof of Residence 
• PAN Card 
• Driving License 
• Passport-Size Photograph 
• Aadhaar Card
• Government-Issued Photo ID
• Bank Account Details 
• Voter ID Card
• Application Form

Procedure to Update Your Ration Card from APL to BPL

The process of updating your ration card from APL to BPL involves several steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the procedure:

Visit the Nearest Mamlatdar Office 

You need to go to the Mamlatdar office or the City Mamlatdar office nearest to you. These offices have various branches such as e-Dhara, revenue, ATVT, supply, disaster management, and election branches. You need to visit the supply branch for ration card-related services.

Submit the Application Form 

Obtain the prescribed application form for converting your APL ration card to a BPL ration card. Fill out the form with accurate details and attach the required documents listed above.

Verification Process

Once you submit your application, the authorities will verify your documents and assess your eligibility based on the provided information and supporting documents.

Approval and Issuance

If your application is approved, your APL ration card will be converted to a BPL ration card. The new card will then be issued to you, allowing you to access the benefits provided under the BPL category.

How to Apply Online for a New Ration Card

If you need to apply for a new ration card or update your existing one, you can do so online through the Digital Gujarat portal. Here’s how:

Step 1 : Visit the Digital Gujarat Website: Go to [digitalgujarat.gov.in](https://digitalgujarat.gov.in).

Step 2 : Create an Account

 

Step 3 : Fill Out the Application Form

Step 4 : Upload Documents

  

Step 5 : Submit the Application 

Step 6 : Track Your Application

Helpline and Support for Ration Card Services in Gujarat

If you encounter any issues during the application process or need further assistance, the Gujarat government provides several helplines:

Food and Ration Card Helpline: Toll-Free Number: 1800 233 5500

Gujarat State Consumer Helpline: Toll-Free Number: 1800 233 0222

One Nation One Ration Card Helpline: 14445

These helplines are available to help you with any questions or problems related to ration cards in Gujarat.

Updating your ration card from APL to BPL in Gujarat is a crucial step for those who qualify under the specified criteria. With the benefits offered under the BPL category, including greater access to subsidized food grains and other essential commodities, it’s vital for eligible families to make this update. The process is straightforward, and with the availability of online services, it has become even more accessible. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your ration card accurately reflects your economic status, allowing you to receive the support and benefits you are entitled to under the NFSA.

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