Srinagar- The Jammu and Kashmir government has approved the distribution of additional free foodgrains to beneficiaries under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) to support poor households.
This initiative aims to enhance the monthly food supply for AAY families under the Public Distribution System (PDS). According to a government order, the additional allocation will be determined case by case, ensuring that no AAY beneficiary receives more than 10 kilograms per month across all PDS schemes, including the National Food Security Act (NFSA).
The quantity of extra foodgrains will vary based on household size. For instance, families with up to 10 members will receive an additional 35 kg of rice, while larger households may get even more as per a predefined formula. The rice, sourced through the Open Market Sale Scheme (Domestic), will be distributed free of cost.
To implement the scheme, the Finance Department has been authorized to allocate additional budgetary support, which will later be reimbursed into the Revolving Fund (Foodgrains) Accounts of the respective directorates. The government has also signaled that once the Department of Food & Public Distribution resumes wheat sales under the Open Market Sale Scheme, the possibility of providing wheat and wheat flour to AAY households will be considered, pending approval from the Competent Authority.
Announcing the decision, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said, “In a major pro-people move, fulfilling the Budget 2025-26 promise, the J&K government will now provide additional free foodgrains to all AAY households under PDS. Each beneficiary will receive up to 10 kg, ensuring greater food security for our most vulnerable families.”
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