Many of us take our ration card for granted. We think it's just a card to get food. But honestly, this one card can change your family's fortune. If you want free gas or free medical treatment up to Rs 5 lakh, you'll need a ration card first.

What if you don't have a ration card?
Everyone knows that having a ration card entitles you to cheap or free food grains. But there's more to it than that. Without a ration card, you're not included in major government schemes. This means you won't be able to benefit from them if you don't have one. Therefore, it's important to get one without wasting time.

1. Ujjwala Yojana – Free Gas Connections
Under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, free gas connections are provided to poor families. But this isn't just about wanting gas. Certain documents are required for that.

What's needed?
Aadhaar card – for your identity and address.
Bank account details – because the gas subsidy is credited directly to your account. A photocopy of your ration card – this should include the names of everyone in your household. This is crucial. If the names are missing, your application will be delayed.

2. Ayushman Bharat – Free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh.
The second major scheme is the PM Jan Arogya Yojana, also known as the Ayushman Card. Under this scheme, the government covers expenses up to Rs 5 lakh for serious illnesses. Even if you need to be hospitalized, you don't have to worry about money. However, to obtain this Ayushman Card, you'll need a ration card. If you don't have a ration card, your Ayushman Card won't be issued.

What is required for Ayushman?
Aadhaar or PAN card – for identification.
Address proof.
Mobile number and email.
Caste certificate.
Income certificate.
And ration card as proof of family.

Ration cards are common to both major schemes. If not, you'll be stuck. How to get a ration card online from home? Now there's no need to stand in lines for government work. You can apply from your mobile. First, go to your state's Food and Civil Supplies Department website. There, you'll see an option called "New Ration Card Apply." Click on it.

PC: NAVRASHTRA