In a landmark move aimed at providing relief to India’s economically weaker sections during the monsoon season, the central government has launched the Ration Card Free Distribution Scheme June 2025, benefitting over 80 crore ration card holders across the country.
Under this scheme, the government will not only distribute free food grains like wheat and rice but will also include 10 daily essentials such as pulses, sugar, oil, salt, spices, soap, tea leaves, and milk powder. In some states, an additional ₹1000 in direct cash benefit will be provided to eligible families.
Multiple Schemes Merged into One Holistic Relief Plan
The scheme is being implemented under the umbrella of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, with a special focus on BPL (Below Poverty Line), AAY (Antyodaya Anna Yojana), and PHH (Priority Household) categories. Distribution will occur twice in June, and families will also receive advance ration for July and August to mitigate supply disruptions due to floods or road closures during the monsoon.
What Will Beneficiaries Receive?
The package includes:
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Food grains: 14 kg wheat + 21 kg rice for AAY families; 2 kg wheat + 3 kg rice per member for PHH
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Daily essentials: pulses, sugar, cooking oil, salt, spices, soap, tea leaves, and milk powder
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Financial assistance: ₹1000 to be credited via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to eligible families in selected states
Conditions to Avail the Benefits
To receive the benefits, beneficiaries must:
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Possess a valid BPL, AAY, or PHH ration card
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Have completed e-KYC
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Ensure their bank account is Aadhaar-linked
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Be Indian citizens with household income below the state-defined threshold
Scheme Coverage and Implementation Timeline
Distribution is scheduled between May 30 and June 10, 2025, via the Public Distribution System (PDS). Beneficiaries must carry their Aadhaar card, ration card, and bank passbook during collection. Monitoring protocols are in place to ensure transparency and accountability.
States Onboard
The scheme will roll out in collaboration with state governments in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Haryana, Telangana, Karnataka, and Kerala. The list of items may vary slightly across states depending on local needs.
How to Apply?
If an individual already holds a valid ration card with completed e-KYC, no separate application is required. New applicants can visit the nearest Jan Seva Kendra or state food supply department website with documents including Aadhaar card, income certificate, residence proof, bank passbook, and a passport-sized photo.
