India Extends PMGKAY Scheme for Five More Years

India Extends PMGKAY Scheme for Five More Years

VoM News Desk | November 29, 2023 | 04:47 PM IST | Breaking News | Follow on Google News

India Extends PMGKAY Scheme for Five More Years

India Extends PMGKAY Scheme for Five More Years

The Indian government has announced the extension of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) for another five years, in a move to strengthen food security for the poor. This decision, announced by Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur, was taken in a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Scheme Details and Financial Implications

The PMGKAY, initially introduced as a pandemic relief measure in 2020, offers 5 kilograms of free foodgrains per month to 81.35 crore individuals. This extension will cost the exchequer about Rs 11.80 lakh crore over the next five years, starting from January 1, 2024. The scheme was previously set to expire on December 31, 2023.

Objective and Impact on Beneficiaries

The continuation of the PMGKAY aims to ensure uniformity across states in providing accessible, affordable, and available foodgrains to the targeted population. Under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), which encompasses the PMGKAY, up to 75% of the rural population and 50% of the urban population receive subsidized foodgrains. The poorest families under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) are entitled to 35 kg of foodgrains per family per month, while priority households receive 5 kg per person per month.

Government’s Vision and Distribution Mechanism

The government views this as a historic decision reflecting its long-term commitment to national food and nutrition security. The free distribution of grains through over 5 lakh fair price shops across the country under the One Nation One Ration Card initiative is expected to bring significant monthly savings to ration card holders and alleviate financial hardships sustainably.

VoM News Desk

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