In a monumental decision, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has paved the way for the Central government to provide free food grains to an astounding 81.35 crore beneficiaries under the PMGKAY (Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana). This transformative initiative is set to unfold over a period of five years, commencing from January 1, 2024, at an estimated cost of Rs. 11.80 lakh crore.
Key Highlights of the Historic Decision:
- Scale and Significance: The decision places PMGKAY on a global pedestal as one of the world’s most expansive social welfare schemes. Aimed at ensuring food and nutrition security for 81.35 crore individuals, this initiative stands out with an estimated expenditure of Rs. 11.80 lakh crore over the next 5 years.
- Vision for Development: The move underscores Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unwavering commitment to efficient and targeted welfare, focusing on meeting the fundamental food and nutrition requirements of the population. The decision to provide free food grains during Amrit Kaal holds the potential to play a pivotal role in shaping an aspirational and developed India.
- Strengthening Food Security: Free distribution of rice, wheat, and coarse grains/millet under PMGKAY for five years from January 1, 2024, is designed to fortify food security and alleviate any financial hardships faced by the poor and vulnerable sections of the population.
- Uniform Implementation: The scheme ensures nationwide uniformity in the delivery of free food grains across all States/UTs through a network of over 5 lakh Fair Price Shops, sporting a common logo. Beneficiaries can conveniently lift free food grains from any fair-price shop in the country under the One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) initiative.
- Financial Impact: The approximate food subsidy for the distribution of food grains under PMGKAY over the next five years is expected to be Rs. 11.80 lakh crore. This substantial financial commitment reflects the government’s dedication to providing sustained support to the targeted population.
- Long-Term Commitment: The decision reflects the long-term commitment and vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in addressing national food and nutrition security. By mitigating financial hardships in a sustainable manner, the scheme ensures a long-term pricing strategy with zero cost to the beneficiaries, fostering effective penetration of the Public Distribution System.
- Monthly Savings for Ration Card Holders: The economic cost of 35-kilogram rice for an Antyodaya family, borne by the Government of India under PMGKAY, comes to Rs. 1371, while the cost of 35 kg wheat comes to Rs. 946. Ration card holders enjoy significant monthly savings due to the provision of free food grains.
- Government’s Commitment: The Scheme aligns with the government’s commitment to providing a dignified life to the people by ensuring access to food and nutritional security through an adequate quantity of quality food grains.
The historic decision to provide free food grains under PMGKAY for five years, starting January 1, 2024, stands as a testament to the dedication and commitment of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi toward strengthening food and nutrition security in the country. This transformative initiative is poised to uplift millions by addressing basic needs and fostering inclusive development.
