Q4(b). Evaluate the central food schemes and other assistance programmes to ensure food security for the poor in India.

“Food security is not a privilege; it is a fundamental human right.” FAO

India follows a multi-layered approach to food security based on availability, accessibility, and affordability. Several central schemes form the backbone of this system.

1. National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013

Covers 81.35 crore people (67% population). Provides:

• Rice ₹3/kg, wheat ₹2/kg, coarse grains ₹1/kg.
• Ensures nutritional support to pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children through ICDS and MDM.

2. Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana

Launched during COVID-19, now extended till Dec 2028, provides 5 kg free food grains per person monthly. It prevented hunger shocks for over 80 crore beneficiaries.

3. Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)

Provides supplementary nutrition to children (0–6 years), pregnant and lactating women through anganwadi centres.

4. Mid-Day Meal Scheme / PM-POSHAN

Offers hot cooked meals to school children, improving nutrition and attendance.

5. Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY)

Ensures food grains to the “poorest of poor” households at highly subsidized rates.

6. MSP & Procurement System

Ensures steady availability of food grains for PDS; Haryana is a major contributor with strong procurement of wheat, rice, and bajra.

7. One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC)

Enables portability of ration benefits across India critical for migrant workers.

These schemes together create one of the world’s largest food safety nets, though leakages, nutrition gaps, and inclusion errors require continuous strengthening.