“Uttar Pradesh extends its free ration scheme under PMGKAY, ensuring food security for over 10 crore residents. With stricter KYC checks and expanded benefits, the initiative aims to support the poorest while tackling misuse. The state’s robust public distribution system continues to be a lifeline for millions.”
Uttar Pradesh Bolsters Food Security with Free Rations for 10 Crore
Scheme Extension and Coverage
The Uttar Pradesh government has extended the free ration scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) to benefit over 10 crore residents. Initially launched in 2020 as a pandemic relief measure, the scheme provides 5 kg of free food grains per person per month to National Food Security Act (NFSA) beneficiaries and 35 kg per household for Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) families. The extension, aligned with the central government’s five-year plan until 2028, ensures continued support for the state’s poorest.
Stricter Measures to Curb Misuse
To ensure benefits reach genuine beneficiaries, Uttar Pradesh has implemented stringent checks, including mandatory KYC verification. A recent probe identified 10.71 lakh ineligible ration cardholders, including 71,000 falsely registered widows, leading to the cancellation of fake cards. The KYC deadline has been extended to May 31, 2025, to facilitate compliance while maintaining transparency.
One Nation One Ration Card Advantage
The scheme integrates with the One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC) system, allowing migrant workers to access rations anywhere in India. This has been a game-changer for Uttar Pradesh’s large migrant population, ensuring seamless access to food grains regardless of location. Nearly 100 crore portability transactions have been recorded nationwide since August 2019.
Additional State Benefits
Beyond free grains, Uttar Pradesh is exploring additional benefits to enhance food security. Inspired by Rajasthan’s Annapurna Food Packet scheme, which includes pulses and oil, the state plans to introduce similar measures. These additions aim to address nutritional gaps, particularly for landless workers, small farmers, and daily wage earners.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite its success, the scheme faces challenges. The Supreme Court has raised concerns about over-reliance on free rations, urging the government to focus on job creation to reduce dependency. Experts argue that outdated 2011 Census data excludes nearly 14 crore eligible Indians from NFSA benefits, with Uttar Pradesh alone potentially missing millions.
Economic Implications
The free ration scheme costs the central government approximately ₹2 lakh crore annually, with an additional ₹15,000 crore per year due to the extension. In Uttar Pradesh, efficient distribution through 79,000 ration shops has minimized leakages, but the state’s high beneficiary count adds significant fiscal pressure.
Impact on Beneficiaries
The scheme remains a lifeline for millions, particularly in rural Uttar Pradesh, where 75% of the population qualifies for NFSA benefits. Beneficiaries like landless laborers, artisans, and street vendors rely on free grains to survive economic hardships. The state’s proactive measures, such as digitization and Aadhaar seeding, have ensured 99% of ration cards are verified.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports, government announcements, and expert analyses. Information is sourced from credible outlets like The Hindu, Times of India, and official statements. Readers are advised to verify details with local authorities or the NFSA website for eligibility and updates.