States seek free grain supply from Centre amid COVID surge

As the country is reeling under the second wave of coronavirus pandemic, many states have urged the central government to consider releasing free food grains, similar to the one under PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) last year during the lockdown.

New Delhi: Amid the second wave of COVID-19 and localised lockdowns that triggered a return of migrants, many states have requested the central government to consider releasing free food grains to all the ration cardholders.

Last year. food grains were distributed under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), after the imposition of nation wide lockdown.

As per sources, the central government has not taken any decision yet on launching the scheme again, however, it is considering launching the scheme soon amid worsening condition.

Speaking on the matter, Sudhanshu Pandey, Secretary, Department of Food & Public Distribution, said that the government is mulling to launch the scheme soon.

The grain is supplied to the states at a cheaper rate under PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana. Under the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS) also, grains are being given at lower rates. Under the National Food Security Scheme, at least 80 million people are being given rice, wheat, coarse grains at the rate of Rs 3, 2, 1 per kg respectively," he added.

Pandey further said that although it not yet confirmed that when will the central government give free ration this time but its thinking towards this is very liberal and positive.