New Delhi: The Central government has been providing food grains free of cost to Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households and Priority Households (PHH) beneficiaries under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) for a period of one year beginning from 1st January 2023, the Food Ministry said on Wednesday.

At present, against the intended coverage of 81.35 crore, 80.48 crore beneficiaries are identified by the States/UTs under the Act for distribution of free foodgrains under the PMGKAY, the ministry said.

The decision is aimed at easing the financial burden of the poor beneficiaries and ensuring nationwide uniformity and effective implementation of the National Food Security Act (2013) in terms of accessibility, affordability and availability as well as strengthening the food security network in the country

The Central government bears the food subsidy for procuring, allocating, transporting and delivering the foodgrains till the designated depot in the states.

This is done through two food subsidy schemes, namely, Food Subsidy to FCI and Food Subsidy to Decentralized Procurement (DCP) States.

Under this scheme, free foodgrains are being distributed through Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) from 1st January 2023.

The additional cost of making foodgrains free of cost to the NFSA beneficiaries is being borne by the Centre.

The National Food Security Act, 2013, provides for coverage of up to 75% of the rural population and up to 50% of the urban population, which as per Census 2011 comes to 81.35 crore persons.

The coverage under the Act is substantially high to ensure that all the vulnerable and needy sections of society get its benefit.

Following the statement, the opposition Congress Party alleged that the announcement violated the election code of conduct.

At present, polls are being held in five states.