How to Get a PVC Ration Card or Digital Ration Card in India (2025 Guide)
Gone are the days of carrying fragile paper ration cards that tear easily or fade over time. With the advancement of digital public services in India, citizens now have access to PVC Ration Cards and Digital Ration Cards, offering convenience, portability, and long-lasting durability.
If you’re still using an old paper ration card or don’t yet have one, this complete guide will help you download a digital copy, print a PVC version, or even apply for a new ration card — all from the comfort of your home.
✅ What Is a Digital Ration Card?
A Digital Ration Card is an official digital copy of your physical ration card. It contains the same details — your name, ration card number, family members, and eligibility — but is available in PDF format. It can be downloaded to your phone or computer and is accepted at all ration shops and government agencies just like the physical version.
Benefits of Digital Ration Card:
- Easily stored in your phone
- Always accessible, even during emergencies
- Tamper-proof and cannot be lost or torn
- Valid across India, especially helpful with the One Nation One Ration Card scheme
💳 What Is a PVC Ration Card?
A PVC Ration Card is a plastic card printed with your ration card information, similar in look and feel to an Aadhaar card or ATM card. It’s waterproof, durable, and easy to carry in your wallet.
Benefits of PVC Ration Card:
- Long-lasting and weather-resistant
- No need to carry paper documents
- Professional and compact design
- Ideal for daily use at ration shops
📱 How to Download Digital Ration Card (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Install the Mera Ration App
Download the Mera Ration 2.0 mobile app from the Play Store or App Store.
Step 2: Log in with Registered Details
Enter your Ration Card Number or Aadhaar Number, then verify via OTP.
Step 3: View and Download
Once logged in, your digital ration card will appear on-screen. You can tap the Download PDF option to save it on your device.
Step 4: Use Anywhere
This downloaded version is valid at ration shops, government verification counters, and during inspections.
App Link
🖨️ How to Get a PVC Ration Card
There are two easy ways to get your PVC version:
Option 1: Print at a Local Shop
- Go to a nearby digital photo studio or printing shop
- Share the PDF version of your ration card
- Request a PVC print in card format
- You’ll get a durable card in just a few minutes
Option 2: Order Online (For Home Delivery)
- Visit any reliable PVC card printing website
- Upload your digital ration card PDF
- Enter your delivery address and pay a small printing & courier fee
- The card will be delivered within 5–7 days
📝 How to Apply for a New Ration Card Online
If you don’t have a ration card yet, here’s how to apply for one easily online:
Step-by-Step Application Process:
- Visit your state’s Food & Civil Supplies Department official website
- Choose “Apply for New Ration Card”
- Fill in your name, address, Aadhaar number, family member details, income, etc.
- Upload scanned copies of necessary documents
- Submit and note your application number for tracking
Alternatively, you can apply via the UMANG app, which supports various ration card services for different states.
📂 Required Documents for New Ration Card Application
Before applying, make sure you have the following:
- Aadhaar Card (for all family members)
- Proof of address (Electricity bill, Rent Agreement, etc.)
- Passport-size photographs
- Income certificate (if applicable)
- Mobile number linked with Aadhaar
Note: Requirements may slightly differ from state to state.
⚠️ Important Tips
- Ensure your Aadhaar number is linked with your mobile number for OTP.
- Save the digital ration card PDF on cloud storage for easy backup.
- If any error is found in your card details, apply for correction immediately.
- The PVC card is not a separate identity — it’s a printed copy of your official ration data.
🙋♂️ Who Should Get a Digital or PVC Ration Card?
This solution is perfect for:
- People who frequently use ration shops
- Those living in flood-prone or humid areas (PVC doesn’t get damaged)
- Citizens who prefer keeping documents digitally
- Migrant workers and travellers (easier portability)
🔗 Useful Government Portal Links
For quick access and services:
- Official Ration Portal:
👉 https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/ - Link Aadhaar with Ration / PAN:
👉 https://eportal.incometax.gov.in/iec/foservices/#/pre-login/bl-link-aadhaar
🧾 Conclusion
The government’s digital push has made managing ration cards more convenient than ever. Whether you’re upgrading your old card to a PVC version, or just want a digital copy on your phone, you can now handle it all without paperwork or long queues.
By switching to digital or PVC ration cards, you’re not only making your life easier but also helping India move toward a more efficient, tech-enabled public system.
So don’t wait — download your card, print your PVC, or apply today!
