In a significant move, the Union cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the extension of the PM Garib Kalyan Yojana, a program initiated during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic. The scheme, initially designed to provide additional five kilograms of grains (wheat or rice) to ration cardholders, along with supplementary chana distribution, will now continue for another five years.
Prime Minister Modi, expressing his commitment to the welfare of the nation’s poor, had previously announced the government’s intention to extend the PM Garib Kalyan Yojana during election rallies. The decision to provide free grains under the public distribution scheme for the next five years aims to support approximately 80 crore vulnerable citizens.
This historic initiative, effective from January 1, 2024, not only strengthens food security but also addresses financial hardships faced by the economically disadvantaged. The program, with an estimated food subsidy of Rs. 11.80 lakh crore over the next five years, underscores the government’s dedication to ensuring long-term pricing strategies and zero costs for beneficiaries.
Under the One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) initiative, the extension of PM Garib Kalyan Yojana will enable beneficiaries to lift free food grains from any fair price shop across the country, promoting ease of living and enhancing portability for migrants. The move aligns with the government’s commitment to Digital India and technology-based reforms.
The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, initially launched in April 2020 to alleviate the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, has evolved into a cornerstone of the government’s efforts to enhance food and nutrition security. By providing free food grains for the next five years, the government aims to sustainably mitigate financial hardships and ensure the effective penetration of the Public Distribution System, with significant monthly savings for ration cardholders.
This decision reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unwavering commitment to addressing national food and nutrition security, marking a historic step towards securing the well-being of the country’s vulnerable populations.