The e‑KYC (Electronic Know Your Customer) process for ration card holders in india has become mandatory as part of efforts to improve transparency and ensure that Public Distribution System (PDS) benefits reach genuine beneficiaries. Many state governments — including Bihar and Odisha — have set February 28, 2026 as the final deadline to complete this e‑KYC process. Missing this deadline could affect your access to rations and other government food security benefits.
🔔 Why e‑KYC Is Important for Ration Card Holders
The e‑KYC requirement means you must link your ration card to Aadhaar and verify your identity. This is aimed at:
- Removing duplicate or fake beneficiaries from the PDS system
- Making sure subsidised foodgrains and other benefits reach the right families
- Ensuring accurate ration distribution without misuse or fraud ◆
Failing to complete e‑KYC by the deadline may lead to suspension of ration benefits or removal of names from ration card lists. In bihar, for example, authorities have already removed over 52 lakh names from ration cards due to discrepancies found during verification.
📅 Deadline: february 28, 2026
Most states that have enforced the e‑KYC rule have set February 28, 2026 as the last date to complete the process. Cardholders who do not finish their e‑KYC by then risk:
- Loss of free ration entitlements
- Cancellation of ration card entries
- Removal of family members listed on the card
It’s important to complete this process before the deadline to avoid disruption in your PDS benefits.
🧾 Who Needs to Complete e‑KYC?
All ration card holders, especially under schemes like:
- NFSA (National Food Security Act)
- PHH (Priority Household)
- AAY (Antyodaya Anna Yojana)
are required to complete their e‑KYC. This includes every family member listed on the card for the household to remain eligible for foodgrain subsidies and other welfare benefits.
📱 How to Link Your Ration Card to Aadhaar (e‑KYC Process)
There are two main ways to complete your e‑KYC — offline at a local centre or online from home. Both ensure your ration card is verified and linked correctly.
🏠 1. Complete e‑KYC at home (Online)
You can use the Mera eKYC App — an official mobile app supported by the government for ration card e‑KYC:
- Download and install the “Mera eKYC 2.0” app on your Android or iOS device.
- Login using your Aadhaar number and OTP received on your registered mobile number.
- Verify your identity by face authentication or biometric prompt.
- Follow the on‑screen instructions to link your Aadhaar with your ration card.
This method lets you finish the e‑KYC process without visiting any office, saving time and effort.
🏬 2. Complete e‑KYC at the Ration Shop or E‑POS Machine
If you are unable to complete the process online, you can do it offline by visiting:
- Your nearest fair price shop (FPS)
- Local public service centre or PDS office
At the shop, officials will use an e‑POS machine to authenticate your identity using your Aadhaar fingerprint or OTP — after which your ration card will be updated with e‑KYC completion.
Make sure to carry your Aadhaar card and ration card when you visit these centres.
📌 Tips to Avoid Scams and Extra Charges
- The government does not charge any fee for completing ration card e‑KYC — avoid paying agents or intermediaries.
- Do not share Aadhaar OTPs or private details on unofficial links or messages. Scammers may use fake prompts to trick you.
- If approached by anyone requesting payment for e‑KYC, report to local officials or civil supply authorities.
🛡 What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If e‑KYC is not completed by the end of February 28, 2026, authorities may:
- Suspend your ration card temporarily
- Remove your name from the ration card list
- Stop subsidised foodgrain distribution at fair price shops**
The goal is to weed out ineligible or outdated beneficiary entries, but missing the deadline can disrupt your access to essential government benefits.
📍 Final Takeaway
Completing your ration card e‑KYC before February 28, 2026 is essential to continue receiving subsidised rations and food security benefits without interruption. You can either do it online through the Mera eKYC app or offline at your nearest fair price shop. Don’t wait until the last minute — get it done early to avoid hassles or loss of benefits.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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