In India, it’s important to prove your identity to receive many government services and benefits. These ID cards provide access to social benefits and opportunities ranging from healthcare to financial services and voting rights. These cards will help you get private or government jobs, initiate your business, open your bank account, and lots more.
The seven mandatory government id cards identification cards that every Indian should own are examined in this article. These cards are essential tools for every citizen as they not only verify your identification but also guarantee your ability to engage fully in the political, social, and economic life of the nation.
Table of Contents
1. Ration Card
A ration card is an important document issued by the Indian government to help citizens avail of the benefits provided through the Public Distribution System. This system comes under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). The ration card allows Indian citizens to access subsidized food grains and other commodities.
One can get their ration card from the legal provisions and ration shops. People residing in rural areas and those who have low income use this as their identification proof. It can also be used for accessing numerous government services and welfare schemes. The government issues multiple ration cards as per the income of the person.
Ration cards have been used in India since the 1960s and now it’s much easier to get e-ration cards. Though this is not a mandatory document, it plays an important role for millions of Indian citizens.
Official Link – Ration Card Official Site
2. Birth Certificate
A birth certificate remains to be the most fundamental and crucial asset to any citizen. The hospital in which the child is born issues the birth certificate. This acts as the birth and citizenship proof in India. It holds important information like birth date, day, time, hospital, doctor name, and country.
Your birth certificate is the first legal document that acknowledges your existence and citizenship in the country. It signifies your identity till 18 years of age or until you get your Aadhar card. It is extremely important to submit a birth certificate for the child’s admission to schools.
You may need your birth certificate for the following major reasons:
- Registering for School
- For a Driving Licence
- For Getting Married
- For a Government Job
- For Travelling Anywhere Outside of the Country
3. Aadhaar Card
The Aadhaar Card is a unique identification document issued by the Indian government that contains a 12-digit unique identification number linked to an individual’s biometric and demographic data. Introduced by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the Aadhaar Card has become a crucial ID for accessing government and private services.
It is used for identity verification, linking bank accounts, availing subsidies, and filing taxes. The Aadhaar Card’s wide acceptance and integration into various systems make it an essential document for every Indian citizen, simplifying access to numerous services and benefits.
Official Link – Aadhar Card Official Site
4. PAN Card – Government ID Card
The Permanent Account Number (PAN) Card is a ten-digit alphanumeric identifier issued by the Income Tax Department of India. It is primarily used for tracking financial transactions and ensuring that taxes are paid correctly. The PAN Card is essential for filing income tax returns, opening bank accounts, and making large financial transactions.
Additionally, it is required for investments, property purchases, and other economic activities. The PAN Card not only serves as proof of identity but also helps curb tax evasion, making it an indispensable document for individuals and businesses in India.
Official Link – PAN Card Application
RELATED : Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) – Account Open Online
5. Driving License
A Driving License is an official document issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) that permits an individual to operate motor vehicles on Indian roads. It serves as both proof of identity and age and is recognized as a valid identification document across the country.
The Driving License includes details such as the holder’s name, photograph, birthdate, and the types of vehicles they are authorized to drive. Beyond its primary function, a Driving License is also commonly used for various legal and financial transactions, making it an essential document for every licensed driver in India.
6. Voter ID
The Voter ID, officially known as the Elector’s Photo Identity Card (EPIC), is a crucial document issued by the Election Commission of India to eligible voters. It serves as proof of identity and age for Indian citizens, allowing them to participate in the democratic process by casting their vote during elections.
The Voter ID includes the holder’s photograph, name, and electoral district details. Beyond its primary purpose, the Voter ID is widely accepted as a valid identification document across various government and private institutions, making it a vital asset for exercising one’s rights and duties as a citizen of India.
- It is proof that you are an Indian citizen.
- It proves that you are eligible to vote in elections.
- It is helpful for the Government to deal with electoral fraud.
7. Educational Certificates
Educational Certificates are critical documents that validate an individual’s academic achievements and qualifications. Issued by recognized educational institutions, these certificates are essential for pursuing higher education, securing employment, and applying for various government services.
From school-leaving certificates to university degrees, these documents reflect the educational journey of a person. In India, Educational Certificates are often required for identity verification, proving eligibility for scholarships, and accessing certain professional opportunities, making them indispensable for anyone aiming to advance in their career and personal life.
The list of educational documents that are important at various stages of life include:
- 10th & 12th Certificates
- Character Certificate
- Mark Sheets
- College Degrees
Conclusion
These are just seven legal documents that an Indian citizen needs to have. However, the list continues further, and in a country like India, it’s quite essential to keep all your documents and ID cards handy. These cards will not only help you prove your identity but also allow you to get benefits from several governmental welfare programs and schemes.
Moreover, it’s important to know that many documents could be more or less needed but all these documents come in handy at some other point of your life. As per the digitization, you can also keep e-copies of all these documents and cards in your mobile phones. You can also download the same from the official portals.
Great