kiranmai tutika | AMARAVATI

In a move aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in the public distribution system, the Andhra Pradesh government is preparing to launch a new set of smart ration cards starting next month. These next-generation cards will feature QR codes, allow instant digital verification of beneficiary details, and do away with political branding, signaling a significant shift in the state's approach to welfare delivery.

According to officials in the Civil Supplies Department, the government will begin distributing over 1.48 crore smart cards, which will replace old ration cards currently held by beneficiaries. This includes 1.46 crore existing cardholders and an additional 2 lakh new beneficiaries who have recently been approved.

‘These smart cards are being designed with a focus on dignity, data accuracy, and digital ease. The new cards will carry only the photograph of the beneficiary, the official emblem of the Andhra Pradesh government, and a unique QR code that links to a centralized database. No political leaders' images will be printed on the cards,” said the Minister Nadendla Manohar, speaking to Metro India.

The QR code will serve as a digital identity link, enabling real-time verification of entitlements and household data. With a simple scan, field officers and fair price shop dealers can instantly access the beneficiary's information—eliminating manual errors and reducing the chances of duplication or fraud.

‘This reform is part of the government’s broader vision of good governance and efficient service delivery. It’s not just about changing the card, but changing the way we interact with citizens through technology and respect,’ said the Minister. The decision to remove the images of political figures from ration cards is being seen as a bold and symbolic move, especially in a state where welfare schemes have often doubled as political messaging tools. Instead, the government is opting for a clean, official design that prioritizes functionality over propaganda.

Distribution of the new cards is expected to begin in phases, starting with regions where Aadhaar-seeding and biometric verification have been completed. A public awareness campaign will also be launched to educate citizens on how to use the new smart cards, especially in rural areas where digital literacy remains low. The state government believes this initiative will help streamline welfare delivery, improve record-keeping, and pave the way for integrating ration services with other digital platforms such as health and pension schemes.

With the rollout expected in August, Andhra Pradesh will become one of the states in the country to implement smart ration cards at such a large scale, aligning with the Centre’s push for digitization and transparency in welfare distribution.