Multiple beneficial schemes operate under the Government of India to serve people nationwide. Millions of citizens access these government programs, which provide them with essential benefits. Under the National Food Security Act, individuals who qualify receive free supplementary rations at subsidized rates through the central government. All citizens must possess a ration card to be eligible for government scheme benefits. A ration card serves multiple purposes beyond obtaining rationed goods, as it also provides access to numerous national welfare programs. The government issues different types of ration cards, each distinguished by its colour.
A ration card issued by the Government of India can be used for identification purposes and as a document that grants access to ration benefits. Moreover, it offers multiple advantages. There are four different types of ration cards in India, each associated with a specific colour, indicating the facilities available to the holder. The four types of ration cards in the governmental system are yellow, pink/red, blue/orange, and white, as reported by ABP News.
- Yellow Ration Card: This card is issued to needy citizens living below the poverty line (BPL). Holders of this card receive priority access to government schemes and benefits, including subsidized wheat, rice, pulses, sugar, and kerosene. They are also eligible for free Ujjwala gas connections.
- Pink/Red Ration Card: This card is given to individuals whose income is above the poverty line. Government shops provide food grains to these cardholders at standard market prices. In some cases, subsidies are available under specific ration-related schemes.
- Blue/Orange Ration Card: Holders of this card receive benefits under schemes such as the Ujjwala Scheme and Awas Yojana. They are entitled to subsidized grains, kerosene, and fuel.
- White Ration Card: This card is issued to individuals in certain states who do not receive government grain subsidies. It allows them to avail of reductions in electricity and water bills. Additionally, it can serve as both an identification document and proof of address.
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