Send an SMS, apply for new ration card

Udupi, Mar 21: Hassles of waiting in serpentine queue to get ration cards is a thing of the past. Your new ration card is just a message away because as per the new process launched by the Government, the submission of applications for obtaining new ration cards can be done through mobile phones.

As per the directive issued by the Commissioner of the State Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, those residing in cities and towns in Karnataka, wishing to apply for ration cards can type a text message 'RCNEW' along with the applicant's full name and send it to 9212357123. The sender will receive an automated text message quoting a token number and security code, which can be used to submit an application at the nearest photo-bio centre.

In rural areas

Applicants from rural areas can submit applications at their respective Gram Panchayat after April 1. However, while doing so a new applicant from rural area has to be accompanied by a permanent ration card holder (with his photo on the ration card) as an introducer while applying for the ration card. Along with this, an electricity bill of the applicant's dwelling, house tax payment receipt, an address proof of the applicant or his/her family member (Driving license, house title deed, voter ID, Aadhaar card etc) and a mobile phone number belonging to the applicant or his/her family member is required. As this is a permanent service, applicants need not fear about the last date for applying.

Provisional card

However, city or town dwellers with a provisional ration card would have to apply for permanent card within March end. Likewise, provisional card holders from rural areas should apply for permanent cards within April, failing which the provisional cards would be cancelled, informed Deputy Commissioner of Udupi Dr M T Reju.