By Amrit Pal Sidhu @Babushahi Network
Fazilka, July 22: The Punjab Government has commenced the process of accepting online applications for new Smart Ration Cards and for adding eligible family members to existing ration cards under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013, Deputy Commissioner Amarpreet Kaur Sandhu announced on Tuesday.
The initiative, launched under the directions of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, aims to ensure that all eligible families are covered under the food security scheme through a transparent, fair, and technology-driven application process.
Sharing details, Deputy Commissioner Amarpreet Kaur Sandhu said that application forms for new ration cards as well as inclusion of additional family members are available in both Punjabi and English and can be downloaded from the Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs website.
Applicants can submit their applications online by visiting their nearest Sewa Kendra or Common Service Centre (CSC). A processing fee of Rs100 per application will be charged for forms submitted through these centres. However, applicants who submit their applications directly through the Punjab Government's online portal will not be required to pay any processing fee.
The Deputy Commissioner said that once an application is successfully submitted, the applicant will receive an acknowledgement message along with a receipt number on the registered mobile number for future reference.
She informed that applications will be accepted from July 22 to August 11, 2026, and can be submitted at Sewa Kendras and CSCs on all working days between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Applicants may also approach the office of the District Controller, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Fazilka, for assistance regarding the application process and documentation requirements.
Meanwhile, District Controller Vandana Kamboj urged residents of Fazilka district to carefully read the instructions provided with the application form before applying and ensure that all required documents are attached to avoid rejection or delays in processing.
She further advised citizens to contact the office of the District Controller, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, located at the District Administrative Complex, Third Floor, Fazilka, during office hours for any clarification or assistance related to the scheme.