The Delhi government has revised the rules for issuing ration cards, making online application mandatory for all new applicants. Under the new system, applications will no longer be accepted offline, and every family member must provide their Aadhaar number. These applications will undergo strict scrutiny, including verification at three different levels, to ensure transparency and prevent misuse. The updated process has been communicated to all regional assistant commissioners of the Food, Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department, along with a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

According to the new guidelines, applications submitted online will first be examined by the Food Supply Officer. If required, officials may also conduct physical verification visits to confirm the details provided by applicants. Authorities can raise queries regarding discrepancies in documents or information, and applicants will be required to respond before their request is approved. The move aims to streamline the ration card issuance process and curb fraudulent entries in the public distribution system.

The changes follow the notification of the Delhi Food Security Rules, 2026, which came into effect on February 4. Based on these rules, the SOP directs assistant commissioners to work closely with district magistrates to implement the new ration card process smoothly. The Delhi government is expected to soon begin issuing more than eight lakh new ration cards, as the city has a quota of around 72 lakh cards. New applications are typically invited due to reasons such as death of an existing cardholder, surrender of cards, or migration.

Eligibility norms have also been clearly defined under the revised rules. While applying, the eldest female member of the family above 18 years of age will be designated as the head of the household. If no adult female is available, the eldest male member will temporarily be considered the head until the female member turns 18. Applications must be submitted through the e-district portal by the head of the family, along with Aadhaar copies of all members. If the Aadhaar address differs, additional documents such as proof of residence in Delhi, an income certificate issued by the Revenue Department, an affidavit of eligibility, and an electricity bill will be required.

To expand coverage under the public distribution system, the Delhi Government has increased the annual family income limit from ₹1 lakh to ₹1.20 lakh. However, ration cards will not be issued to families owning land or property in A–E category colonies, paying income tax, owning a four-wheeler, holding a government job, or having an electricity connection exceeding two kilowatts. These tightened norms are aimed at ensuring that ration cards reach only genuinely eligible households.