Vijayawada: The Andhra Pradesh government has officially launched the distribution of Smart Ration Cards to beneficiaries across the state. Municipal Administration Minister Nadendla Manohar handed over the first cards in Varalakshminagar, Vijayawada, highlighting that the new cards, equipped with QR codes, will provide real-time updates to central and district authorities whenever ration is collected.
The minister stated that distribution is currently underway in nine districts, with a target of reaching 1.46 crore families by September 15. New cards will also be issued to families who have recently changed addresses. Unlike traditional paper cards, these durable plastic cards aim to reduce discrepancies in ration distribution. QR codes, along with biometric verification, will help detect misuse, prevent multiple card ownership, and ensure smoother operations.
Applications for the Smart Ration Cards can be submitted online via MeeSeva or AP Seva Portals, through WhatsApp using the “Mana Mitra” service, or offline at local village and ward secretariats. Applicants must submit Aadhaar cards for all family members, address proof, income certificate, and passport-size photographs.
Beneficiaries can track their application status online at the AP Seva Portal or [vswsonline.ap.gov.in](https://vswsonline.ap.gov.in). Local authorities will verify applications before issuing the cards to eligible families.