One Nation One Ration Card Scheme - Latest Updates and Details

The One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) scheme, introduced as part of the Prime Minister's Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, aims to provide food security and portability for beneficiaries across India. This ambitious initiative allows migrants and eligible individuals to access subsidized food grains from any Fair Price Shop (FPS) in the country, regardless of the location of their ration card issuance. With the implementation of ONORC, the government aims to address the challenges faced by migrants and ensure that all eligible citizens have access to essential food supplies. Let's explore the details and frequently asked questions (FAQs) about this transformative scheme.

I. The Introduction of ONORC:

The ONORC scheme was rolled out by the Finance Minister on 16 May as part of the stimulus funds provided under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. The objective is to enable beneficiaries to purchase ration from any FPS across the country using their existing ration card. This scheme has been launched in all states and Union Territories, with 20 states already agreeing to implement it.

II. Purpose and Benefits of ONORC:

The primary purpose of the One Nation One Ration Card is to ensure that all 80 crore beneficiaries entitled to subsidized food and grain under the National Food Security Act 2013 can avail themselves of these benefits. Previously, beneficiaries were restricted to purchasing ration only from the designated PDS shops in their locality, leading to difficulties for migrants. With ONORC, beneficiaries can now purchase subsidized food from any FPS shop in any locality and city, providing them with greater flexibility and convenience.

The benefits of ONORC include:

Nationwide Portability: Beneficiaries can avail their entitled food grains from any Fair Price Shop in the country using the same ration card, promoting ease of access and eliminating geographical limitations.

Empowering Migrant Workers: Migrant workers can now enjoy the privileges of subsidized food grains in any city they relocate to for work, ensuring their well-being and livelihoods.

Freedom to Choose Dealers: Beneficiaries have the option to choose their preferred dealer, allowing them to switch FPS shops in case of any misallocation or irregularities.

Empowering Women and Vulnerable Groups: ONORC provides a stronger foundation for women and other marginalized groups to access the Public Distribution System (PDS), ensuring their food security and well-being.

Achieving SDG 2: The implementation of ONORC aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 2, aiming to end hunger by 2030 and improve India's ranking in the Global Hunger Index.

III. Portability Procedure and Technology:

The portability of ration cards to the One Ration Card is facilitated through an online process. The Integrated Management of Public Distribution System (IMPDS) acts as the technology platform for inter-state portability, allowing migrants to purchase food grains from any FPS shop nationwide. The Annavitran portal complements this by providing information and data for food distribution within states using the E-POS system and devices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

When was the ONORC scheme introduced?

The scheme was announced by the Finance Minister on 16 May during the last phase of the Prime Minister's Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.

How many states have implemented the ONORC scheme?

As of now, 20 states have joined the ONORC scheme, including recent additions like Odisha, Sikkim, and Mizoram.

How does ONORC benefit migrants?

Migrants can purchase subsidized food grains from any FPS shop in the country using their existing ration card, irrespective of the location