Modi Cabinet's PMGKAY Extension: 5-Year Aid for 81 Crore Indians

The Modi government extends the 'Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) scheme' for five more years, offering 5 kg of free foodgrains monthly to 81 crore poor starting January 2024. Union Minister Anurag Thakur highlighted the scheme's impact, stating that 13.50 crore Indians rose above poverty in the last five years due to this initiative.

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The extension of the 'Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) scheme' by the Modi government for an additional five years marks a significant move. This initiative aims to provide 5 kg of free foodgrains per month to 81 crore impoverished individuals, scheduled to commence from January 1, 2024.

The scheme, which commenced in 2020, merged with the National Food Security Act (NFSA) last year to augment the supply of free food grains. It encompasses the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and priority households, catering to up to 75% of the rural populace and 50% of the urban population.

Anurag Thakur, the Union Information and Broadcasting Minister, highlighted the scheme's impact, noting that around 13.50 crore people transcended the poverty line over the past five years due to this program. He emphasized the government's commitment to uplifting the economically deprived sections of society.

Thakur further detailed that the total expenditure over the next five years for this extended scheme is estimated to be approximately Rs 11.8 lakh crore. This financial commitment underscores the government's determination to sustain this vital assistance to millions in need.

Under the PMGKAY, AAY households receive 35 kg of foodgrains per family per month, while priority households are entitled to 5 kg per person. This continuation of support aligns with the government's larger vision of ensuring food security for those holding ration cards, offering 5 kg of free or subsidized food grains through the Public Distribution System (PDS).

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The scheme's implementation includes providing wheat to specific states such as Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Gujarat, while rice is allocated to the remaining states and union territories. This strategy aims to cater to diverse regional preferences and ensure equitable distribution of essential food items across the country.

The PMGKAY scheme has been a crucial part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, offering essential sustenance to migrants and the economically disadvantaged. Its extension signifies the government's ongoing commitment to support vulnerable sections and enhance their quality of life through sustained aid and provisions.