A ration card is an official document issued by the state government to provide subsidised food grain through the Public Distribution System (PDS) under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). 

In 2013, the National Food and Security Act (NFSA) was passed to provide a certain quantity and quality of food to people at affordable prices. Currently, the state governments that have implemented the NFSA issue two types of ration cards to the qualifying families in their respective states, that is Priority Household (PHH) ration card and Non-priority Household (NPHH) ration card. 

Additionally, you can use the ration card as proof of your identity when applying for documents like a Birth certificate, Voter ID card. 

Here are the step by step to apply for ration card: 

Step-1: Visit the website https://nfsa.gov.in/ 

Step-2: Click on ‘New User! Sign up here’ and complete the registration page with all required details.  

Step-3: Check and Confirm all the details including id proof like Aaddhar card details and create a unique password and submit ‘ok’    

Step-4: Enter the OTP received on your registered phone. 

Step-5: Go back to the home screen and Log in using the Aadhaar card option.  

Step-6: Apply for Ration Card:  

 Choose "New Registration." 

 Select your State and click "Submit." 

Step-7: Complete the form by selecting "Ration Card" as the Beneficiary type and entering details in the format found on your Aadhaar Card. 

Step-8: Click "Save and Continue" after filling in address details, Bank Account details and submit  

Documents required to apply for ration card:

Aadhaar card 

Mobile number 

Passport-size photograph of family members who reside in your house 

PAN card 
Previous electricity bills 

Your income certificates 

Caste/category certificate (if any) 

Bank passbook and a photocopy of the first page of your passbook. 

Details of your gas connection 

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully register and apply for a new ration card on the NFSA portal.