Context: The Government has extended the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY) for another five years from 1st of January 2024.

Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY)

• About: It was introduced by the Government of India in March 2020 as a food security welfare initiative amid the COVID-19 pandemic in India.
• Operated by: Department of Food and Public Distribution.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
• Targets: To feed the poorest citizens of India by providing grain through the Public Distribution System.
• Distribution: The center provides 5 kg of free food grains per month to the poor.

oAntyodaya Households: Antyodaya households are entitled to 35 kg of free food grains monthly under the scheme.

oThe free food grains will concurrently ensure uniform implementation of portability under the One Nation One Ration Card across the country and will further strengthen this choice-based platform.

Significance of the PMGKAY Scheme

• Hunger Reduction: The initiative aims to alleviate the issue of hunger within the population, particularly during times of distress.
• Addressing Farm Distress: The procurement of rice and wheat under Minimum Support Price (MSP) will tackle the challenge of declining prices of food grains for farmers.