Last Updated on: 17th February 2024, 12:49 am
Free Ration Scheme: PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana Extension
The PMGKAY Free Ration Scheme, also known as Gareeb Kalyan Yojana, initiated by the Indian government to provide free ration to the economically disadvantaged, has witnessed significant participation, with approximately 80 crore people benefiting from the program.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently announced the extension of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, the official name of the scheme, for an additional five years, extending the original end date to December 31, 2028.
Under this government scheme, impoverished individuals continue to receive essential provisions such as rice and gram at no cost. Prime Minister Modi, addressing a rally in Durg for the Chhattisgarh elections, expressed the government’s commitment to ensuring free food for 80 crore people over the next five years.
PMGKAY Scheme 2024
The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) is a government initiative aimed at providing free rations to economically struggling individuals. The program, initially set to conclude in December 2024, has now been extended by an additional three months, aligning with the National Food Security Act (NSFA) until December 31, 2024.
The recent extension, announced on November 4, has garnered significant attention, marking a strategic move by the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government to address the needs of the economically vulnerable.
Currently, participants in the initiative receive monthly food grain allocations at a nominal cost ranging from ₹1-3 per kilogram. The quantities are determined based on the categories outlined in the NFSA Act.
PMGKAY Free Ration Scheme Eligibility Criteria
Qualifications for a free ration card vary among states but generally include:
- Families with low income or unemployment, live below the poverty line (BPL).
- Widows, single parents, and economically challenged women.
- Individuals with disabilities.
- Elderly individuals with no income source.
- Transgender persons facing employment difficulties.
Benefits of the Free Ration Scheme
Holders of free ration cards enjoy several advantages, including:
- Access to staple foods such as rice, wheat, and pulses at discounted prices through government-run fair-pricing stores.
- Discounts on other necessities like sugar, cooking oil, and kerosene.
- Improved food security, aiming to eradicate hunger resulting from socioeconomic challenges.
Application Process for Free Ration Card
While application procedures differ among states, a general guide includes:
- Visit the official website of your state’s Department of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs.
- Download the new ration card application form.
- Provide accurate information, including names, addresses, incomes, and family details.
- Submit necessary documents, such as income certificates and proof of identity and address.
- Send the completed form and documents to the nearest Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs department office.
- Upon verification, the ration card will be issued.
If you want to apply online for the Karnataka Gruha Lakshmi Scheme read our article.
Garib Kalyan Yojana Scheme 2024
The Pradhan Mantri Gareeb Kalyan Yojana, commonly known as the Free Ration Scheme, aims to assist 80 crore economically disadvantaged individuals by providing free ration. This initiative not only offers crucial support but also contributes to food security, ensuring that societal challenges like poverty do not lead to hunger.
Eligible residents can secure affordable food grains and other essentials by applying for a free ration card and understanding the requirements, benefits, and the application process.
