Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana is a government initiative to help the poor and economically weaker sections of the society during challenging times. It was launched on March 26, 2020, as a response to the 21-day lockdown to ensure that the vulnerable do not face any hardship. The scheme aims to provide necessary support to 80 crore beneficiaries across the country.
Main points of Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana 2023
- Free Ration: The scheme provides free ration to the eligible beneficiaries. Priority is given to economically weaker sections including street dwellers, rag pickers, hawkers, rickshaw pullers and migrant labourers.
- Extension of Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana: Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana has been extended for an additional year. Poor families will continue to get free ration till February 2024.
- Food grains allocation: The government has allocated 759 lakh metric tonnes of food grains to be distributed to 80 crore beneficiaries under the scheme.
- Phased Distribution: The distribution of food grains is done in five phases. Each phase covers a specific period, and the allocation is progressively distributed to ensure smooth supply.
- One Nation One Ration Card: Ration distribution is facilitated through the One Nation One Ration Card scheme, which allows beneficiaries to receive ration from any part of the country using a single ration card.
- Special drive in Uttar Pradesh: A mega ration distribution drive was organized in Uttar Pradesh to provide double ration to Antyodaya ration card holders and eligible families.
- Extension by Delhi government: The Delhi government extended the scheme till May 2022, urging the central government to extend it to all states, considering the impact of COVID-19 on unemployment.
- Interaction with the Prime Minister: The Prime Minister interacts with the beneficiaries of the scheme to assess the effectiveness and address any issues.
- Insurance for Corona Warriors: Medical staff and other health workers involved in fighting the pandemic are covered under an insurance scheme with a cover of Rs. 50 lakhs.
- Scope extended till Diwali: The government has extended the scope of the scheme till Diwali to provide additional food grains and financial assistance to the needy.
How to apply for Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana 2023?
There is no specific application process to avail the benefits of Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana. The scheme automatically provides free ration and other benefits to the eligible beneficiaries. Ration card holders and other eligible citizens can get their free ration from designated ration shops without any registration process.
The Government is committed to support the poor and vulnerable sections of the society during these challenging times and the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana is an important step in that direction.