The Food Security Card (FSC), also known as a ration card, is a crucial document in Telangana that enables residents to purchase essential food items like rice, wheat, sugar, and kerosene at subsidized prices through fair price shops. Issued under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), the FSC ensures that families, especially those with low incomes, can afford basic necessities. It also serves as a valid identity proof for accessing various government schemes.
Types of Ration Cards in Telangana
Telangana offers three main types of ration cards, each designed for different economic groups:
- Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY)
- Who can get it? This card is for the poorest families, such as elderly widows or disabled people (aged 60 or above) heading households, landless agricultural workers, rural artisans (like potters or weavers), marginal farmers, rickshaw pullers, carpenters, blacksmiths, and primitive tribal households.
- What does it offer? AAY cardholders receive highly subsidised food grains to meet their nutritional needs.
- Priority Households (PHH)
- Who can get it? Families with an annual income below Rs. 1.5 lakh in rural areas or Rs. 2 lakh in urban areas, and those owning less than 3.5 acres of wetland or 7.5 acres of dry land, are eligible.
- What does it offer? PHH cardholders get food grains at subsidised rates to support their daily requirements.
- Above Poverty Line (APL)
- Who can get it? Families with a stable income who don’t qualify for AAY or PHH cards can apply.
- What does it offer? APL cardholders may not receive subsidised food but can use the card as identity proof for other government schemes.
| Type of Card | Eligibility | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) | – Elderly widows/disabled (60+ years) heading households – Landless agricultural workers – Rural artisans, craftsmen, marginal farmers – Rickshaw pullers, carpenters, blacksmiths – Primitive tribal households | Highly subsidised food grains |
| Priority Households (PHH) | – Annual income < Rs. 1.5 lakh (rural) or < Rs. 2 lakh (urban) – Land < 3.5 acres (wetland) or < 7.5 acres (dry land) | Subsidised food grains |
| Above Poverty Line (APL) | – Families with stable income not eligible for AAY/PHH | Identity proof for other schemes |
How to Check FSC Application Status
You can track your FSC application status online through the Telangana EPDS portal using various methods, including your FSC reference number, ration card number, mobile number, or Aadhaar number (if linked to your application). Below are the detailed methods:
Method 1: Using FSC Search
- Visit the Telangana EPDS portal.
- Click on the “FSC Search” option on the homepage.
- Under “Ration Card Search,” select “FSC Search.”
- Enter one of the following:
- FSC Reference Number (from your acknowledgement slip).
- Ration Card Number (if you have an existing card).
- Old Ration Card Number (for upgrades).
- Select your district from the dropdown menu.
- Click “Search” to view the status (e.g., “Under Process,” “Approved,” or “Rejected”).
Method 2: Using FSC Application Search with MeeSeva/Application Number
- Go to the Telangana EPDS portal.
- Click on “FSC Search” on the homepage.
- Under “Ration Card Search,” select “FSC Application Search.”
- Choose your district and enter your MeeSeva number or application number.
- Click “Search” to see the status of your application.
Method 3: Using FSC Application Search with Mobile Number
If you provided your mobile number during the FSC application process, you can check your application status using it. Here’s how:
- Visit the Telangana EPDS portal.
- Click on “FSC Search” on the homepage.
- Select “FSC Application Search.”
- Choose the option to search by mobile number, enter the registered mobile number, and select your district.
- Click “Search” to view the current status of your FSC application.
Note: This method works only if your mobile number was registered during the application process. If not, use your FSC reference number, ration card number, or Aadhaar number instead.
Method 4: Using FSC Application Search with Aadhaar Number
If your Aadhaar number is linked to your FSC application, you can check your FSC status using it. Follow these steps:
- Visit the Telangana EPDS portal.
- Click on “FSC Search” on the homepage.
- Select “FSC Application Search.”
- Choose the option to search by Aadhaar number, enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number, and select your district.
- Click “Search” to view your FSC card status, including details like family members, ration type, and entitlement.
Note: This method works only if your Aadhaar number was linked to your FSC application. Always verify the availability of this option on the official website, as it may vary. For assistance, contact the Telangana Civil Supplies Department helpline at 1967 or 1800-425-0033.
What to Do If You Face Issues
If you encounter problems, such as the search option being unavailable or your details not being recognized, try the following:
- Use an alternative method (e.g., FSC reference number, ration card number, or mobile number).
- Ensure your Aadhaar or mobile number is correctly linked to your application.
- Contact the Telangana Civil Supplies Department helpline at 1967 or 1800-425-0033 for support.
- Visit a MeeSeva centre for in-person assistance.
Eligibility for an FSC
To apply for a Food Security Card in Telangana, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a permanent resident of Telangana.
- Not already possess an FSC or any other ration card from Telangana or another state.
- For AAY and PHH cards, your family’s income and land holdings must be within the specified limits.
- Newly married couples, individuals with expired or temporary ration cards, or those who have recently moved to Telangana can also apply.
If you have a ration card from another state, you must cancel it before applying for a Telangana FSC.
Also Read – Telangana Ration card 2025 – Know Application Process & Track Status(దరఖాస్తు ప్రక్రియ మరియు ట్రాక్ స్థితి).
How to Apply for a New FSC
Applying for an FSC in Telangana is straightforward, primarily done through MeeSeva centres. As of June 2025, an online application option may be available through the MeeSeva portal or the Telangana EPDS website. Here’s how to apply:
Offline Application (Through MeeSeva Centres)
- Visit a MeeSeva Centre: Locate the nearest MeeSeva centre in your area.
- Obtain the Application Form: Request the FSC application form from the centre’s staff.
- Fill the Form: Provide details about yourself and your family, including names, ages, and income.
- Submit Required Documents: Attach the following:
- Proof of Residence: Utility bills (electricity, water), rental agreement, or Telangana State Domicile certificate.
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar card, PAN card, or any government-issued ID.
- Passport-Sized Photographs: Photos of the applicant and all family members.
- Pay the Fee: Submit the form along with any applicable fee (confirm the amount at the centre).
- Collect Acknowledgement: Receive an acknowledgement slip with a reference number to track your application.
Online Application (If Available)
- Visit the Telangana EPDS website or the MeeSeva portal.
- Look for the “New FSC Application” option.
- Complete the online form with your details and upload scanned copies of the required documents.
- Submit the form and note the reference number for tracking.
Note: The online application system was announced in February 2025, but you should verify the latest process on the official website or at a MeeSeva centre, as it may still be under implementation.
Importance of eKYC and Deadline
eKYC (electronic Know Your Customer) is a mandatory process to verify your identity using Aadhaar-based biometric data, such as fingerprints or iris scans. All FSC holders must complete eKYC by June 30, 2025, to continue receiving ration card benefits.
Why is eKYC Important?
- It ensures only genuine beneficiaries receive subsidised food.
- It helps the government maintain accurate records and prevent misuse of ration cards.
How to Complete eKYC
- Visit a MeeSeva centre or an authorised eKYC centre.
- Bring your Aadhaar card and ration card (if you already have one).
- The staff will verify your identity using Aadhaar biometrics.
- Once verified, your eKYC will be updated in the system.
Important: Missing the June 30, 2025, deadline may result in the suspension of your FSC benefits, so complete eKYC as soon as possible.
Benefits of Having an FSC
The Food Security Card offers several advantages for Telangana residents:
- Subsidised Food: Purchase essentials like rice, wheat, sugar, and kerosene at low prices from fair price shops.
- Access to Government Schemes: Use the FSC as identity proof to apply for health insurance, scholarships, housing, or other welfare programs.
- Support During Emergencies: FSC holders may receive priority access to relief supplies during crises like floods or pandemics.
- Identity Proof: The card is a valid document for official purposes, such as opening a bank account or applying for a voter ID.