THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The ration cards in the state will turn smart from January onwards. The new ration card, which is of the size of an Aadhaar card, can be used as an identity card with photo and details printed on both sides.

These cards can be carried during trips. The Food Department is considering two models prepared by the Civil Supplies Department. The smart ration card has a QR code and a barcode. Ration shops will be equipped with QR code scanners along with E-PoS machines. Details will be displayed on the screen during the scan. Information will be available on the beneficiary's mobile when the ration is purchased.

Though the current ration card is valid till 2022, the smart ration card will be introduced from January. All you have to do is submit an application with the required changes to the existing card. The new card will be then replaced by a smart card. Such cards will be more useful when the 'One country One Ration Card' system is implemented in the country.