An assessment of Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana in India

Abstract

Food security is a fundamental global concern that affects every aspect of human life from individual health to economic stability. Globally, achieving food security is an ongoing challenge affected by population growth, climate change, pandemics, and environmental degradation. To address these issues, the Indian government initiated the National Food Security Act (NFSA) in the year 2013, and to address these issues during Covid19 pandemic, the Indian government has introduced the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY). This Study found that, according to eligibility criteria, 12 crore people in India are not covered under the scheme due to a delay in the census and the scheme has benefited most of the migrant families and vulnerable populations of the country during the pandemic. Now, the Government of India has extended it to December 2028 and has confirmed the distribution of fortified rice through the Public Distribution System ensuring nutritional security in India.