Obtaining a Physical Dependent Identity Card is mandatory before a dependent can be registered in the Digital Identity Card System introduced by the Rajya Sainik Board (RSB). Therefore, understanding the complete process of obtaining the Dependent I-Card and keeping all required documents ready is extremely important for Ex-Servicemen and their families.
The Dependent Identity Card, issued through the Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB) and the respective Zila Sainik Board (ZSB), is an official proof of dependency for eligible family members of Ex-Servicemen (ESM). It is an essential document for availing various welfare schemes and benefits provided by the Government, including medical facilities, educational assistance, financial grants, welfare support, and other benefits available to ESM families.
Since the newly introduced Digital I-Card system requires prior issuance of a physical Dependent I-Card, eligible dependents should complete this process without delay. To assist Ex-Servicemen, widows, and their family members, this article provides a complete step-by-step guide on the application procedure, documents required, verification process, and subsequent registration for the Digital Dependent I-Card.
Who Can Apply for a Dependent Identity Card?
The following family members of an Ex-Serviceman may be eligible, subject to KSB and service regulations:
- Spouse
- Dependent son
- Dependent daughter
- Widowed daughter
- Divorced daughter
- Unmarried daughter
- Other eligible dependents as approved by the competent authority
Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining a Dependent I-Card
Step 1: Login to the KSB Portal
Visit the official KSB website www.ksb.gov.in and Login using your registered credentials.
Step 2: Apply for a New Dependent Identity Card
After logging in select the option for New Dependent Identity Card. Fill in all required details of the dependent. Upload the necessary information as required. Submit the online application
Step 3: Take a Printout of the Online Application
After successful submission:
- Download the application form
- Take a printout
- Keep it ready for submission to the Zila Sainik Board
Step 4: Obtain Verification Date / Appointment from ZSB
Contact your respective Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) office and:
- Confirm the verification schedule
- Obtain an appointment if required
- Verify whether any additional local documents are needed
Step 5: Keep All Required Documents Ready
Before visiting the ZSB office, arrange all original documents and self-attested photocopies.
Documents Required for Dependent Identity Card
Discharge Book
- Original Discharge Book
- One self-attested photocopy
PPO (Pension Payment Order)
- One self-attested photocopy
Photographs
For Ex-Serviceman
- Family/Group photograph including ESM and all dependents
- Size: 5 cm × 4 cm
- Size including white border
- One copy
For all Dependent single photo
- Size: 2.5 cm × 2 cm
- Size including white border
- Two copies
Proof of Date of Birth
Any one of the following:
- Birth Certificate or
- PAN Card (must for above 18 years son/daughter and parent)
- Other acceptable DOB proof
One self-attested copy.
Dependency Certificate – Dependency Certificate issued by the concerned: Not Required. Copy of Discharge book where entry is there is sufficient. May produce ECHS card, if required.
- Record Office
- Service Headquarters
- Competent Military Authority. One self-attested copy.
Aadhaar Card
For:
- Ex-Serviceman
- Dependent
One self-attested copy.
Undertaking Certificate
Required for dependent children aged: 18 years and above. One self-attested copy. The form is available with ZSB.
Certificate from Local Authority
Original certificate with photograph attested by the issuing authority confirming that the dependent is below . This is required for unmarried son/daughter only regarding unmarried only.
- Alive
- Unmarried
- Unemployed
- Divorced
- Widow
Court Decree (For Divorced Dependents)
If the dependent is divorced:
- Submit a photocopy of the Court Divorce Decree.
Printout of KSB Online Application
Carry the printed application generated from the KSB portal.
Payment Receipt
Payment made through the prescribed RSB Scanner/Online Mode. This action can be done when you report to ZSB for verification.
Keep details of:
- Transaction ID
- Date of payment
- Bank name
- Sender’s name
Additional Documents
Some ZSBs may ask for:
- Copies of the Aadhaar card of both ESM and dependent
- Previous dependent card (if renewal/replacement)
- Other locally prescribed documents
It is advisable to confirm with your ZSB before visiting.
Step 6: Visit the Zila Sainik Board (ZSB)
On the scheduled date:
- Visit the ZSB office personally
- Carry all originals and photocopies
- Submit the printed application form (Online submitted) & Physical Form to be issued by ZSB.
- Complete document verification
- Pay the prescribed fee (if not already paid)
After successful verification and approval, the Dependent Identity Card will be issued.
Fee Structure
- New Dependent Identity Card: ₹100
- First Loss: ₹300
- Second Loss: ₹600
- Third Loss: ₹900
No duplicate card is normally issued after the third loss.
Important: Apply for the Digital Dependent I-Card
Receiving the physical Dependent Identity Card is not the final step.
The Government of West Bengal has introduced a Digital ESM Identity Card System through the Rajya Sainik Board (RSB).
Step 7: Apply for the Digital Dependent I-Card on the RSB Portal
After receiving the physical Dependent Card:
- Login to the RSB website
- Select the option for Dependent Registration
- Enter details of the newly issued Dependent Identity Card
- Upload the required documents
- Submit the application
Once verified by the Rajya Sainik Board, the Digital Dependent Identity Card will be generated and made available online.
Final Words
The Dependent Identity Card is an essential document for the family members of Ex-Servicemen. It facilitates access to various welfare schemes, grants, educational assistance, and other benefits offered by the Kendriya Sainik Board, Rajya Sainik Boards, and Zila Sainik Boards. Ex-Servicemen are advised to complete both the physical Dependent I-Card process through the KSB/ZSB and the Digital I-Card registration process through the RSB portal to ensure seamless access to welfare benefits in the future.