By GUNTUR, May 12, 2025: In a major push toward digitisation and citizen convenience, the Andhra Pradesh government has enabled six key rice card services via WhatsApp. Minister for Food and Civil Supplies Nadendla Manohar made this announcement during a press conference held at the Civil Supplies Department camp office in Tenali on Sunday.
Rice Card Services Now Accessible on WhatsApp
Starting May 15, citizens can avail essential rice card-related services from the comfort of their homes through the State’s WhatsApp Governance platform. By simply sending a “Hello” message to 95523 00009, beneficiaries can access multiple services without visiting government offices.
This initiative is part of the broader strategy to enhance transparency, reduce physical dependency on offices, and offer digital convenience. Over 72,519 people have already utilized these services since their introduction.
Six Key Services Offered
Since May 8, the Andhra Pradesh government has been offering six rice card services at village and ward secretariats:
- New rice card application
- Bifurcation of rice cards
- Address changes
- Addition of family members
- Removal of family members
- Surrender of rice card
These services will now be integrated with WhatsApp, offering a direct and simplified user experience for rural and urban residents alike.
Smart Rice Cards for Eligible Beneficiaries
The minister also announced that from June 2025, eligible applicants who complete eKYC (electronic Know Your Customer) verification will be issued smart rice cards. These new cards will come with full details of the family and will be distributed free of cost.
The smart cards are designed to enhance transparency and eliminate duplication or fraudulent claims. They will serve as a digital record and proof of eligibility for receiving subsidized commodities under the Public Distribution System (PDS).
Inclusive Coverage for Vulnerable Groups
Minister Nadendla highlighted that the new smart rice cards will also be issued to individuals who live alone or are in vulnerable circumstances. These include:
- People over 50 living alone
- Separated spouses
- Orphans
- Elderly residents in care homes
This marks a significant shift in the government’s welfare policies, aiming to include the most marginalized and socially excluded individuals in the welfare net.
First-Time Recognition for Transgender Individuals
For the first time, the Andhra Pradesh government will be issuing rice cards to individuals who have undergone gender transition. This move has been widely appreciated by activists and social welfare organisations as a progressive step toward inclusivity and social justice.
By extending welfare services to the transgender community, the state acknowledges their identity and ensures their access to essential commodities and food security.
Exemptions from eKYC for Certain Age Groups
While the eKYC process is mandatory for most applicants, certain exemptions have been made for:
- Children below five years of age
- Senior citizens above 80 years
This decision ensures that the most dependent age groups are not burdened with digital or procedural hurdles.
Support for Tribal and Artist Communities
In another welfare-oriented initiative, the minister announced that Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) cards, which provide 35 kg of rice per household, will be distributed to:
- Tribal communities such as Chenchus and Yanadis
- Pension-receiving rural artists
These AAY cards are meant to support economically weaker sections, especially those in remote tribal areas and individuals who contribute to rural culture and heritage through traditional arts.
Widespread Reach and Future Plans
Currently, Andhra Pradesh has about 1.46 crore rice cardholders, serving approximately 4.24 crore people across the state. The department’s ongoing efforts aim to further enhance service delivery, improve transparency, and strengthen the link between government schemes and rightful beneficiaries.
Minister Nadendla reiterated the government’s commitment to leveraging technology for the benefit of the common man and making governance more accessible, efficient, and inclusive.
Conclusion
The launch of rice card services via WhatsApp is a noteworthy step in Andhra Pradesh’s digital governance journey. By combining technological innovation with inclusive welfare strategies, the state is not only simplifying service access but also addressing the needs of its most vulnerable citizens.
As the initiative unfolds in phases, more residents are expected to benefit from this citizen-centric reform in the coming months.
