As is known, the Telangana government has decided to issue new ration cards under the state’s Public Distribution System (PDS), with a particular focus on providing smart cards to all beneficiaries. Unlike the earlier ration cards, the government is taking steps to significantly strengthen the authenticity of these new cards. In order to prevent fake and fraudulent cards, the government is now producing ration cards with an extremely high level of security, incorporating as many as 9 distinct security features into the new cards.
Among these measures is the use of highly subtle digitised technology that cannot be seen with the naked eye and can only be detected by touch. The card also carries the words “Government of Telangana” printed in raised relief text, allowing the letters to be felt when touched by hand. In addition, microtext has been incorporated into the design, with the words “Government of Telangana” printed once again in extremely small lettering that is not normally visible to the eye but can be examined under magnification.
The cards also employ a technology known as a “dual hidden image,” in which superimposed letters or symbols become visible only when viewed from a specific angle or under magnification. This includes concealed markings such as “GO TG Original.” A watermark bearing the Telangana government’s emblem has also been incorporated into the card, designed to become clearly visible when held up against light.
An invisible UV logo has also been printed on the card, made visible only under ultraviolet light through special processing. The back of the card carries an encrypted QR code, which officials say has been included to prevent unauthorised copying, alteration, or duplication of the information stored on the card. Additionally, the background of the card features an intricate guilloche pattern, which officials say makes counterfeiting the card virtually impossible given its highly complex design.