In a significant move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on November 4, 2023, that the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), a free ration scheme for the poor, would be extended for the next five years. This decision will benefit over 80 crore people across India, providing them with much-needed food security amidst rising inflation and economic uncertainties.
The PMGKAY was initially introduced in March 2020 to provide relief to the poor during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the scheme, eligible beneficiaries receive 5 kilograms of rice or wheat per person per month free of cost. The scheme has been instrumental in mitigating the impact of the pandemic on the most vulnerable sections of society.
The extension of the PMGKAY for the next five years is a welcome step that will further strengthen the government's social safety net. It demonstrates the government's commitment to ensuring food security for all its citizens, especially the poorest of the poor.
Here are some of the key benefits of extending the PMGKAY:
Food security: The scheme will continue to provide essential foodgrains to millions of poor families, ensuring that they have access to adequate nutrition.
Reduced household expenditure: The free ration will help alleviate the financial burden on poor households, allowing them to allocate their limited resources towards other essential needs such as education and healthcare.
Stimulus to the economy: The continued availability of free ration will boost consumption and demand, providing a much-needed stimulus to the economy.
Improved social welfare: The scheme will contribute to the overall well-being of the poor, reducing hunger and malnutrition and improving their quality of life.
The extension of the PMGKAY is a commendable decision that will have a positive impact on the lives of millions of poor people across India. It is a testament to the government's commitment to social justice and inclusive development.