New ration cards: Long lines the new daily order at tahsildar offices

Hyderabad: The government’s directive to accept applications for new ration cards, the basis for people to avail of subsidies and financial aid under the Six Guarantees, has proved hugely popular among the public, who could be seen lining up at tahsildar offices to apply for the same.

As there is no prescribed format for the new ration card process, mandal revenue officers are accepting applicant details, as filed, at the tahsildar offices, a ground visit by Deccan Chronicle found.

During a visit to the Balanagar mandal tahsildar office in Medchal-Malkajgiri district on Wednesday, this reporter found that a list of necessary supporting documents was pasted on the wall for applicants to apply for a ration card.

Srinivas, the Balanagar tahsildar, said there has been a mammoth response to the government’s decision to accept new applications for ration cards and benefits under its guarantees. “The staff at tahsildar office started receiving applications and initiated action by verifying the applications. The applicants must submit application forms along with supportive documents such as Aadhaar card, latest address proof (gas bill and electricity bill), bona fide certificates, and affidavit for residence certificate, caste certificate, income certificate, EWS certificate and others,” he said.

Officials have taken measures to issue such certificates within 15 days of receiving applications from people, he said.

 Sultana Begum, a resident of Fathenagar, who was applying for a new ration card, said: “I did not apply for a ration card for the past 10 years, but decided to get one after the government introduced the Six Guarantees. I submitted an application form and the staff informed they will visit the residence for verification.”