The ration card is an important document for many families in Pakistan. It helps poor and low-income households get basic food items like flour, rice, sugar, and cooking oil at low prices or sometimes free. If you have already received your ration card, the next step is to activate it so you can start using it. Many people get the card but are unsure how to activate it. This guide will explain the complete process in easy language, step-by-step, so you can quickly start getting benefits from your ration card.
What is a Ration Card?
A ration card is a card given by the government to eligible families so they can get:
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Wheat flour (atta)
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Rice
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Pulses
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Cooking oil or ghee
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Sugar
These items are given at a discounted price or free of cost depending on your eligibility. Visit Official Website
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Check Eligibility | Send CNIC to official SMS code (e.g., 8123) |
| 2 | Visit Center | Go to nearest ration shop/utility store with CNIC & card |
| 3 | Biometric Verification | Thumbprint scan to verify identity |
| 4 | Activation Confirmation | Receive SMS that your card is active |
Why Do You Need to Activate the Card?
If your ration card is not activated:
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You cannot use it at ration shops or utility stores.
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Your card details will not show in the system.
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You will not be able to claim your benefits.
By activating the card:
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The government verifies your identity.
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Your card is linked to your CNIC.
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You can use it at any authorized store under the program.
Who Needs to Activate the Card?
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People who just received their ration card for the first time.
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People who did not use their ration card for a long time (more than 6 months).
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People whose cards were blocked due to verification issues.
Step-by-Step Guide to Activate Your Ration Card
Step 1 – Check Your Name in the Beneficiary List
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Send your CNIC number via SMS to the official code (for most programs it is 8123, but confirm with your local ration scheme).
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You will get a reply telling you if you are eligible and active in the system.
Step 2 – Visit the Nearest Ration Center or Utility Store
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Take your ration card and original CNIC.
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Go to the nearest registered ration shop, utility store, or government facilitation center.
Step 3 – Fingerprint Verification
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Give your CNIC to the operator for biometric verification.
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Place your thumb on the fingerprint machine.
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Once verified, the system will show your ration card as “Active.”
Step 4 – Link Your Card to Your CNIC
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The operator will link your ration card with your CNIC in the system.
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This ensures no one else can use your card.
Step 5 – Confirmation Message
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After successful activation, you will get an SMS confirming your card is now active.
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You can now start using your card to get discounted ration.
Tips for Smooth Activation
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Make sure your CNIC is valid and updated.
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If your fingerprints are not matching due to age or health, go to NADRA to update your biometric record.
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Keep your mobile phone number active to receive SMS updates.
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Only go to official ration centers – do not share your details with unauthorized agents.
Benefits After Activation
Once your ration card is active, you can:
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Get discounted ration every month.
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Sometimes get free ration during special government campaigns (Ramzan, Eid, flood relief, etc.).
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Use your card at any registered store in your district.
Common Problems During Activation and Their Solutions
Problem 1: Fingerprints not matching.
Solution: Visit NADRA to re-register your fingerprints, then try again.
Problem 2: Name not in the system.
Solution: You may need to reapply for the ration card at your local BISP or ration distribution office.
Problem 3: Card already showing “active” but not working at store.
Solution: Ask the store operator to refresh the system or check at another registered shop.
How to Keep Your Ration Card Active
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Use your card regularly to prevent it from being marked “inactive.”
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Update your CNIC and contact number if they change.
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Respond to verification messages sent by the government.
Conclusion
If you already have a ration card, activating it is the key to enjoying its benefits. The process is simple and free – check your eligibility via SMS, visit the nearest ration center, complete biometric verification, and link your card to your CNIC. Once active, you can use it to get affordable or free food items for your family.
FAQs
Can I activate my ration card online?
Currently, most ration card programs require in-person biometric verification, so full activation online is not possible. However, you can check your eligibility status online or via SMS before visiting a center.
How long does activation take?
If your documents are correct and your fingerprints match, activation is usually completed within 5–10 minutes.
Is there any fee for activating a ration card?
No. Activation is completely free. If anyone asks for money, report them to the helpline or local authorities immediately.