PMGKAY: The central government approved several schemes on Wednesday (October 9, 2024). The Cabinet has extended the supply of free fortified rice under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKAY) and other welfare schemes from July 2024 until December 2028. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that this initiative would cost ₹17,082 crore, which will be fully covered by the central government. The minister also said that the goal of this decision is to promote development and improve nutritional security.
Free Rice for the Poor
In April 2022, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) decided to implement the rice fortification initiative across the country in a phased manner by March 2024. So far, it has been successfully implemented in three phases. The supply of fortified rice to the poor is expected to reduce anemia and deficiencies in essential nutrients.
Other Approvals by the Modi Cabinet
The Cabinet also approved road construction in the border areas of Rajasthan and Punjab. According to the Union Minister, 2,280 kilometers of roads will be built, with a cost of ₹4,406 crore. Additionally, the Cabinet has approved the development of a National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Lothal, Gujarat, which will be completed in two phases. The aim is to showcase India’s rich and diverse maritime heritage and create the world’s largest maritime heritage complex.
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According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) conducted between 2019 and 2021, anemia remains a major problem in India, affecting children, women, and men. The government’s decision to extend this scheme comes at a time when the BJP has won a major victory in the Haryana Assembly elections.
Maharashtra is also expected to have its assembly elections this November. On Wednesday, PM Modi laid the foundation for several development projects worth over ₹7,600 crore in Maharashtra through digital platforms. He also inaugurated 10 medical colleges via video conferencing.
