Lost your Ration Card? Here's How to Get A New Duplicate Ration Card – Here the Complete Process

A ration card is a very important government document in India. It helps poor and needy people get subsidized or free rations under government schemes. Besides this, a ration card is also used as proof of identity and address.

However, sometimes people lose their ration cards or they get stolen, which makes it difficult for them to obtain rations. There's no need to panic, as the process of getting a duplicate ration card has now become quite easy.

What to do first if your ration card is lost?

If your ration card is lost or stolen, the first thing you should do is register an FIR (First Information Report) or General Diary (GD) at your nearest police station. This is a legal record, and in many states, a copy of the FIR is required for a duplicate ration card.

After filing the FIR, keep a copy of it with you, as it may be needed during the online or offline application process.

How to get a duplicate ration card offline?

If you want to apply offline, you will have to visit your district's District Food and Supply Department (DFSC office) or ration card office.

Offline Application Process:

Obtain the duplicate ration card application form (in many states, it is called DY or Form 15).

Fill in the details of the head of the family and all the members in the form.

Attach the necessary documents:

• Copy of the police FIR
• Aadhaar card
• Proof of residence (electricity bill, water bill, etc.)
• Photographs of family members
• Affidavit
• Some states also charge a nominal penalty fee.

After submitting the application, the officials will verify the details, and the duplicate ration card will be issued within a few days.

How to get a duplicate ration card online?

Now, many states offer ration card-related services online. You can apply for a duplicate ration card from the comfort of your home.

Online Application Process:

Visit your state's Food and Supply Department or PDS portal.

Select the "Duplicate Ration Card" or "Apply for Lost Ration Card" option. Log in using your Aadhaar number or mobile number.

Fill out the application form and upload the required documents

In some states, you may need to pay the fee online. After submitting your application, you can track the status online. Nowadays, in many states, the process of obtaining a duplicate ration card has been made completely online through digital portals, saving people the hassle of visiting government offices.

Documents required for a duplicate ration card:

• Police FIR or General Diary entry
• Aadhaar card or Voter ID
• Proof of residence
• Photographs of all family members
• Affidavit
• Old ration card number (if available)

How long does it take?

Processing time varies from state to state. Generally, a duplicate ration card is issued within 7 to 15 days if all documents are in order.

Why is a ration card important?

A ration card is not just a document for obtaining rations; it also serves as proof of identity and is essential for availing various government schemes and subsidies. Without it, poor and needy families may be deprived of government benefits.

If your ration card is lost, there's no need to panic. You can easily obtain a duplicate ration card by filing a police complaint. Whether you apply offline or online, the process is now much simpler and faster than before.

Therefore, if your ration card is lost, immediately file an FIR and apply for a new ration card to continue receiving government rations and benefits.

Read More: JEE Main 2026 Answer Sheet Out : How To Check Your Answers and How To Challenge Answer Sheet ? Know Here