New Delhi: In a landmark decision, the Cabinet led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the provision of free food grains to approximately 81.35 crore beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) for a five-year period starting 1 January 2024.
This initiative is poised to be one of the largest social welfare programs globally, with an estimated cost of Rs 11.80 lakh crore over the next five years.
The decision underscores the government’s commitment to addressing food and nutrition security for millions, particularly during what is termed “Amrit Kaal,” a period dedicated to the nation’s aspirational growth. The program aims to enhance food security and alleviate financial burdens for vulnerable populations by providing rice, wheat, and coarse grains free of charge.
Food grains will be distributed uniformly across all states and union territories through a network of over 5 lakh Fair Price Shops, all operating under a unified branding. Beneficiaries will benefit from the “One Nation, One Ration Card” (ONORC) initiative, which allows for easy access to food supplies from any Fair Price Shop in the country. This provision is especially advantageous for migrants, enabling them to carry their entitlements seamlessly across state borders.
The government has committed to an estimated food subsidy of Rs 11.80 lakh crore for the implementation of PMGKAY, aiming to sustain long-term food security and support those facing economic hardships. For instance, the economic cost for 35 kg of rice for an Antyodaya family is around Rs 1,371, and Rs 946 for 35 kg of wheat—costs that will be fully absorbed by the government.
This extension of the PMGKAY scheme reflects Prime Minister Modi’s long-term vision for national food and nutrition security, ensuring that millions of citizens can access quality food without financial strain. The initiative is seen as a vital step towards fulfilling the government’s promise of a dignified life for its citizens through improved access to essential food resources.
Overall, the Cabinet’s decision to continue the PMGKAY scheme for another five years marks a significant advancement in India’s social welfare efforts, reinforcing the commitment to safeguarding food security for all citizens.