Raipur: In a move leading up to the Lok Sabha elections in 2024 and the final phase of assembly elections in five states on November 30, 2023 the Modi government has made a decision. The Modi government has given its approval to extend the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana. This program, which provides grains to over 80 crore individuals across the country over a span of five years, has been extended. The PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana was introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, this scheme will continue for another five years beyond January 1, 2024. Under this initiative, each beneficiary will receive 5 kilograms of grains per person, benefitting a number of 81 crore Indians.
Families covered under the Antyodaya Yojana will still receive their entitlement of 35 kilograms of grains. The government has allocated a budget of ₹11.80 lakh crores for this program in the five years. The beneficiaries of this initiative hold a role in our socio-framework, and extending this scheme is viewed as a strategic move, by the government, particularly considering the approaching Lok Sabha elections.
The program originally created to offer grains until December 31, 2023, has now been prolonged for a period, in line with the government’s commitment to guaranteeing food security for marginalized communities.
The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana has played a role as an assistance system especially during difficult circumstances, like the pandemic. By choosing to extend the scheme, the government aims to continue addressing the nutritional needs of a vast population. This decision not only underscores the government’s commitment to social welfare but also positions the scheme as a key component in its strategy to address food security and uplift the socio-economic conditions of the less privileged.
As the nation looks forward to the upcoming elections, this move is likely to have a significant impact on the government’s outreach and public perception.