The Central Government has distributed food grains under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) to about 81.35 crore beneficiaries (i.e. Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) families and Priority Family (PHH) beneficiaries as per their eligibility. It has been decided to continue providing free food grains for the next five years with effect from January 1, 2024 (i.e. 35 kg food grains per AAY family per month and 5 kg food grains per person per month in case of priority families). This decision is taken keeping in mind the welfare of the beneficiaries and the access, affordability and availability of food grains to the poor. F. S. It has been taken to strengthen the provisions of Act, 2013 and maintain uniformity in all the states.
About PMGKAY
PMGKAY is a flagship initiative under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package. It is implemented by the Department of Food and Public Distribution under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. The scheme leverages the existing Public Distribution System (PDS) to deliver free food grains to eligible beneficiaries.
Under this scheme, 5 kg of food grains (rice or wheat) per person per month is distributed free of cost to beneficiaries covered under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). This is in addition to the regular allocation of food grains provided under the PDS.
Key Points of PMGKAY
- Free Food Grains: Eligible beneficiaries receive an additional 5 kg of rice or wheat per month, free of cost.
- Coverage: The scheme targets over 80 crore beneficiaries covered under the NFSA, including both Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority Households (PHH).
- Duration: Initially launched for a few months in 2020, the scheme has been extended multiple times to address the ongoing needs of the population.
- Objective: To ensure food security for the poor and vulnerable sections during times of crisis.
- Cost to Government: The entire expenditure of the scheme, including the cost of food grains, transportation, and distribution, is borne by the central government.
- Implementation: The scheme is executed through state governments using the existing PDS network.
Benefits of PMGKAY
- Food Security: PMGKAY ensures that no one goes hungry, especially during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Support to Vulnerable Sections: The scheme provides much-needed relief to economically weaker sections, including daily wage laborers, migrant workers, and the unemployed.
- Reduction in Economic Stress: By providing free food grains, the scheme helps families save money for other essential needs like healthcare and education.
- Nationwide Reach: With coverage of over 80 crore beneficiaries, the scheme has a wide-reaching impact.
- Boost to Rural Economy: The assured supply of food grains helps stabilize rural consumption and supports local economies.
Eligibility for PMGKAY
Beneficiaries must meet the following criteria to be eligible for PMGKAY:
- NFSA Beneficiaries: Only individuals or families covered under the NFSA are eligible. This includes two categories:
- Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY): The poorest of the poor households.
- Priority Households (PHH): Low-income families identified by state governments.
- Ration Card Holders: Beneficiaries must possess a valid ration card issued under the PDS.
Ineligibility for PMGKAY
The following individuals or families are not eligible for PMGKAY:
- Non-NFSA Beneficiaries: Those who are not covered under the NFSA are excluded.
- Income Tax Payers: Households paying income tax are generally not considered eligible.
- Non-Ration Card Holders: Individuals without a valid ration card are not entitled to benefits.
- Government Employees (High-Income Groups): High-ranking government officials or those above a certain income threshold may be excluded.
How to Apply for PMGKAY
While PMGKAY does not require a separate application process, eligible beneficiaries must ensure they are listed under the NFSA and possess a valid ration card. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Check Eligibility:
- Confirm your family’s inclusion in the NFSA list through your local PDS office or the NFSA website.
- Obtain a Ration Card (if not already issued):
- Visit your nearest PDS office.
- Fill out the ration card application form and submit required documents such as proof of identity, address, and income.
- Verify Your Ration Card:
- Ensure your ration card is active and linked to your Aadhaar number for seamless access to benefits.
- Access PMGKAY Benefits:
- Visit your designated PDS shop.
- Provide your ration card details and Aadhaar authentication.
- Collect the allocated food grains.
Important Links :-
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FAQs about PMGKAY
1. What is PMGKAY?
PMGKAY is a government scheme providing free food grains to NFSA beneficiaries to ensure food security for the poor and vulnerable.
2. Who is eligible for the scheme?
Beneficiaries under the NFSA, including AAY and PHH ration card holders, are eligible.
3. Do I need to apply separately for PMGKAY?
No, there is no separate application. If you are an NFSA beneficiary, you automatically qualify.
4. What is the duration of the scheme?
Initially launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, the scheme has been extended several times. Its continuation depends on government decisions.
5. What is the cost of food grains under PMGKAY?
The food grains are distributed free of cost.
