419. Can Australian OCI holder

living in India get a Ration Card

Questions: hi sir, I'm an Australian with OCI status. I have planned to stay in India for many years. I still do have my parental properties. for many utility services and identification purposes I would like to ask you if I can obtain a family ration card. your time and response is highly appreciated. Jay, Sydney. Answer: Ration card is for permanent residents of India. If you are living in India on a full time basis, you can apply for a ration card for yourself and include all family member who will be living with you in the same household. *see update below If you are looking to get a ration card exclusively for identification purposes, there are a few things you should be aware of. While several years ago, a ration card was used and accepted across India for identification purposes in India by many people due to lack of other identity documents. Most households had ration cards and whenever proof of residence was required, a ration card was normally used. Currently, the importance of ration cards has declined. Some institutions will not accept them as identification these days. New identification documents these days are: • Driver License (Indian) • Voters card • Passport • Pan Card • Aadhaar Card All the above mentioned items, have the persons photograph. I already have an article on how to apply for and get a ration card in India on this website. To find the article easily, simply use the Google Search bar on top of every page on this site, by doing a search for ration card, you should find the page easily. *Update: Authorities are now asking for citizenship information when issuing ration cards. Ration card in India is now only given to Indian citizens. Ration card forms now specifically ask for applicants citizenship status and a declaration by the applicant that she/he are Indian citizens. OCI holders are not Indian citizens. A sample of the Delhi Ration Card Application Form can be viewed by clicking HERE