How Are Chamoli Residents Benefiting from Free Grains Under PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana?

Chamoli, July 21 (NationPress) Residents of Chamoli district in Uttarakhand are part of the vast population benefitting from the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), a prominent public welfare initiative by the Central government. This program enables over 80 crore economically disadvantaged individuals across India to receive essential wheat and rice free of charge every month.

Local recipients have expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the scheme, describing it as a crucial support for those in need.

“Thanks to this initiative, we receive free rations monthly, which keeps our kitchens active,” shared Hori Lal, a beneficiary from Chamoli.

Devendra Kandhari, a local ration dealer, stated, “This truly is a remarkable initiative for the marginalized. It has significantly aided families. I am grateful to Prime Minister Modi for implementing this program.”

Initiated in 2020 as a response to the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, PMGKAY was designed to ensure food security during the crisis. The government allocated around 1,118 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of food grains over 28 months during phases I to VII, with an estimated financial commitment of Rs 3.91 lakh crore.

Recognizing ongoing needs, the government has extended the scheme, making food grains entirely free for one year beginning January 1, 2023.

The initiative benefits individuals under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), including those in the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority Household (PHH) categories. Previously, food grains were available at subsidized rates—Rs 3 per kg for rice, Rs 2 per kg for wheat, and Rs 1 per kg for coarse grains.

In a significant relief for the underprivileged, the Central Government has further prolonged the distribution of free food grains for an additional five years, starting January 1, 2024. This measure ensures ongoing food security and aims to alleviate the financial strain on the impoverished while promoting a uniform and efficient implementation of NFSA nationwide.

Moreover, the One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) initiative has streamlined ration access throughout the country. Through this program, beneficiaries can obtain their entitled food grains from any Fair Price Shop (FPS), regardless of their location, providing full portability and flexibility.

Currently, out of the targeted coverage of 81.35 crore beneficiaries, approximately 80.67 crore individuals are successfully receiving food grains at no cost, as reported by government data.