Haryana government has decided to replace issuance of ration cards to consumers under the Public Distribution System with smart cards which would be linked to the Unique Identification Card (UIC).

Work to prepare smart cards would commence from May 27, an official spokesman said in Chandigarh on Minday.

Initially, it would be started in four blocks of Ambala, Sonepat, Sirsa and Gharaunda on pilot basis, he said.

UIC for people of all age groups would also be prepared alongwith smart cards and the latter would eventually be linked with UIC, the official said, adding smart cards of more than 54 lakh families would be prepared in the state.

Central government has sanctioned Rs 137.63 crore for implementation of first phase of the programme.