MP govt distributes over 74 lakh ton of free food grains under PMGKAY
Bhopal, June 10
Madhya Pradesh government has made significant strides in ensuring food security for its vulnerable population by distributing substantial quantities of free food grains under the 'Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana'.
Minister for Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Protection Govind Singh Rajput highlighted that since December 2023, the state has distributed 74.31 lakh metric tonnes of free food grains valued at Rs 24,209 crore. These supplies have reached more than 5.39 crore eligible beneficiaries across the state, providing crucial support to families in need.
Under the scheme, a priority category has been introduced specifically for unorganised and migrant workers. This initiative aims to extend free rations to workers registered on the e-Shram portal. Eligibility slips have already been issued to 27.80 lakh new workers belonging to 7.82 lakh families. The distribution of free rations to these beneficiaries is now underway, marking an important step towards inclusive welfare.
The minister also detailed reforms in the 'Public Distribution System' to improve efficiency and transparency. The government has implemented an online payment mechanism for the commission dues of transporters and fair price shops. Since February 2024, approximately Rs 40 crore has been disbursed every month to 896 transporters and 27,872 shops involved in the supply chain. This timely digital payment system has streamlined operations and ensured smoother functioning of the PDS network.
Furthermore, the number of operational PDS supply centres in the state has been increased from 269 to 273, including 42 newly established centres. This expansion has led to notable savings in time and costs associated with the distribution of essential supplies, benefiting both the administration and end users.
These measures reflect the state government's commitment to strengthening food security and supporting the most vulnerable sections of society. By integrating technology and expanding coverage, Madhya Pradesh continues to enhance the effectiveness of central welfare schemes at the grassroots level. Officials believe that such initiatives will go a long way in reducing hunger and supporting economic stability among unorganised workers and low-income families.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally some genuine welfare work! The digital payment system for transporters and fair price shops is a game-changer. Earlier there were so many complaints about corruption and delays in payments to shop owners. My uncle runs a PDS shop in Indore and he says this has made his work much smoother. Technology can really improve governance if implemented properly.
Impressive numbers - 74 lakh tonnes of food grains is no joke. But let's be honest, the real test is whether these grains actually reach the hungry stomachs. I've seen so many PDS shops where the rice and wheat are of poor quality or the shopkeeper tries to divert it to the open market. The government needs to enforce strict quality checks and surprise inspections.
As a daily wage labourer in Bhopal, I can tell you firsthand that this scheme is a lifeline. During the lockdown, we had nothing to eat. Now at least we get wheat, rice, and some pulses every month. But the govt should also start distributing pulses and oil for free, not just grains. And what about those who don't have ration cards? Many urban poor like me are left out. 🇮🇳
Good to see the focus on unorganised workers through e-Shram portal. I work in construction and many of my colleagues are getting rations now. But the process still has gaps - many workers don't have smartphones or Aadhaar linking issues. The government should set up help desks at block levels to assist these people. Otherwise, the scheme remains good only on paper.
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