Says, Transparent, technology-driven process aims to ensure inclusion of all eligible beneficiaries under NFSA and Smart Ration Card Scheme
Balachaur, (Samajweekly) (jatinder pal singh kaler ) Deputy Commissioner Gulpreet Singh Aulakh today informed the general public that, in line with the announcement made by the Chief Minister Punjab Bhagwant Singh Mann and the decision of the State Government, online applications are being invited for the issuance of new Ration Cards and addition of members to existing Ration Cards under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013 and the Smart Ration Card Scheme. The Deputy Commissioner said the initiative has been launched to ensure that all eligible families and beneficiaries are covered through a transparent, fair and technology-driven process. He informed that application forms, available in both English and Punjabi, can be downloaded from the Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs website. Applicants have been advised to carefully read the instructions before filling up the forms and submit them along with all the required supporting documents. Mr. Aulakh said that the applicants can submit their applications online through their nearest Sewa Kendra or Common Service Centre (CSC) by paying a processing fee of Rs. 100 per application. Alternatively, applicants may submit applications free of cost through the online portal https://ercms.punjab.gov.in.
Applications can also be submitted in physical form at the office of the District Controller, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs concerned along with a processing fee of Rs. 100. The Deputy Commissioner further informed that applications will be accepted from July 22 to August 11, 2026, on all working days between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. After successful online submission, applicants will receive an acknowledgement message along with a receipt number on their registered mobile number. He urged all eligible residents to avail themselves of the opportunity within the stipulated period. For any assistance or further information, applicants may contact the District Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Office or their nearest Sewa Kendra/CSC.
