Govt Extends Free Food Grains To 81 Crore Poors For Another 5 Years

The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) is a major government initiative that aims to bolster food security for millions across our nation. The PMGKAY is a government scheme that provides free food grains to the needy. Initially launched as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, this scheme is a part of the larger Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Now, coming to the latest development: the central government has decided to extend this scheme for another five years, starting from 1st January 2024. This extension is a significant move, indicating the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting the underprivileged sections of our society.

Approximately 81.35 crore beneficiaries will receive free food grains under the PMGKAY. These beneficiaries are mainly from Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households and Priority households (PHH), including the poorest of the poor.

The financial aspect of this extension is substantial. The central government is set to spend approximately Rs. 11.80 lakh crore on food subsidies under PMGKAY over the next five years.

Now, who is eligible for these free food grains? Under PMGKAY, the AAY households, which constitute the poorest segment, are entitled to 35 kg of food grains per family per month. 

Priority households, on the other hand, receive 5 kg per person per month. This scheme, therefore, targets a vast range of people in need, ensuring that no one is left behind in our journey towards growth and development.

The purpose of extending the PMGKAY scheme for another five years is multifaceted. Primarily, it’s about strengthening food security and alleviating the financial hardships faced by the poor and vulnerable sections of our population. 

It also ensures uniform delivery of food grains free of cost across all States and Union Territories of India, thereby promoting nationwide equity in access to essential food supplies.

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We expect that the extension of the PMGKAY will be a significant step in our nation’s fight against hunger and poverty. It will uphold the well-being of millions, ensuring that basic needs like food are met, irrespective of economic challenges.

However, it would be much better if the resources could reach the real needy people. Because there are so many mediators who can take advantage as freebies for them.