In a significant move aimed at supporting the underprivileged, the Narendra Modi-led government declared the extension of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana for an additional 5 years, effective from January 1, 2024. This extension entails the provision of 5 kg of free food grains monthly for identified families and a substantial allocation of 35 kg for Antyodaya households, thereby benefiting nearly 81 crore individuals across the country.
During a post-Cabinet meeting briefing, Union Minister Anurag Thakur disclosed that the government is set to allocate a total of ₹11.80 lakh crores over the next five years towards the implementation of this extended scheme. Initially introduced in 2020 as a relief measure amidst the pandemic, the scheme provided 5 kg of complimentary food grains monthly to beneficiaries, supplementing the existing 5 kg of subsidised food grains offered under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). Subsequently, in December 2022, the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana concluded after multiple extensions, merging into the NFSA, granting ration free of cost for a year.
In addition to the extension of the food program, the Union Cabinet also greenlit a central scheme allocating ₹1,261 crore for the next two fiscal years, aimed at providing drones to 15,000 selected women Self Help Groups (SHGs). This initiative, planned from 2024-25 to 2025-26, focuses on enabling these SHGs to offer rental services to farmers for agricultural purposes through the utilization of drones.
Union Minister Thakur emphasized, “The scheme aims to provide drones to 15,000 selected women SHGs during the period 2024-25 to 2025-2026 for providing rental services to farmers for agriculture purpose.” These combined initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to aiding vulnerable sections and facilitating agricultural advancements for inclusive growth.
Sources By Agencies
