Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PM-GKAY) is a vital government initiative. It was introduced to provide free food grains to poor and migrant citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic. Part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat package, the scheme ensured that millions had access to food during difficult times. It helped those most affected by the economic disruptions, particularly during lockdowns.
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Scheme Overview
PM-GKAY was rolled out in different phases to support the needy. It focused on delivering relief to the low income people, ensuring no one went hungry during the pandemic.
| Phase | Duration | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Phase-I | April to June 2020 | Immediate relief to migrants and poor citizens |
| Phase-II | July to November 2020 | Continued support during pandemic disruptions |
| Phase-III | May to June 2021 | Response to the second wave of COVID-19 |
| Phase-IV | July to November 2021 | Ensuring food security during economic recovery |
| Phase-V | December 2021 to March 2022 | Ongoing support as the economy stabilized |
Key Features of the Scheme
Under PM-GKAY, 5 kg of rice or wheat was provided per person each month. This was a significant relief for those covered under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). The scheme helped millions who lost jobs or incomes due to the lockdowns.
How to Apply for Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana?
To apply for the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PM-GKAY), beneficiaries do not need to make a separate application. This scheme automatically benefits individuals who are already registered under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).
Here’s how you can ensure eligibility and receive benefits:
- NFSA Ration Card: Ensure that you or your family is registered under the NFSA. If you already have an NFSA Ration Card, you are automatically eligible for PM-GKAY benefits.
- Visit Local Ration Shop: To receive your free food grains, you need to visit the nearest Public Distribution System (PDS) or ration shop. Food grains under the scheme are distributed through these government-run shops.
- Biometric Verification: Beneficiaries are required to undergo Aadhaar-based biometric authentication at the ration shop. Ensure that your Aadhaar card is linked to your ration card for smooth verification.
- Collect Free Food Grains: Once verified, you will receive 5 kg of food grains per person per month for free, in addition to your regular entitlements under the NFSA.
If you do not have an NFSA ration card but belong to a low-income household, you can check with your local authorities or ration shop on how to register for the National Food Security Scheme and become eligible for PM-GKAY benefits.
Phase-Wise Implementation
In Phase-I and Phase-II (April 2020 to November 2020), food grains were distributed to those in need during the early phase of the pandemic. Phase-III (May 2021 to June 2021) focused on the second wave of COVID-19, ensuring continued support. Phase-IV (July 2021 to November 2021) extended the scheme to provide food security as the situation improved. Phase-V (December 2021 to March 2022) kept the support going for those still affected by economic challenges.
The PM-GKAY scheme has been a lifeline for millions during the pandemic. By providing free food grains, the government ensured that the most vulnerable had their basic needs met. This initiative shows the importance of social support systems in times of crisis, helping citizens in their most difficult moments.
