What is One Nation One Ration Card?

The Union Government launched the 'One Nation, One Ration Card' scheme on a pilot basis in four states in 2019. This scheme aims to ensure all beneficiaries, especially migrants get ration (wheat, rice and other food grains) across the nation from any Public Distribution System (PDS) shop of their own choice. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced plans for nation-wide rollout of the scheme in all states and Union Territories by March 2021.

Under the existing system, a ration cardholder can buy food grains only from the PDS in the locality where he or she lives. This will change once the ‘One