Scheme To Provide Free Foodgrains To Migrant Workers Kicks Off

New Delhi: As part of its Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant) mission, the Central government’s scheme to provide free foodgrains to 8 crore migrant labourers and their families kicked off on Saturday.

Those migrant labourers who are not covered under NFSA or state scheme PDS cards, will be eligible to receive free foodgrains at the rate of 5 kg per month for May and June, 2020.

This will provide much-needed relief to labourers during the coronavirus-induced lockdown.

Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution minister Ram Vilas Paswan informed that total allocation of foodgrains under this scheme is 8 lakh metric tonnes.

Interacting with mediapersons through video conference, Paswan said the entire cost of about Rs 3500 crore — including transportation within the State, dealers’ margin etc — to be allocated to states and Union Territories, will be will be fully borne by Government of India.

He added that the state/UT-wise allocation orders have been issued. Allocation has been made taking 10% of the total number of beneficiaries covered under NFSA in a particular state/UT.

Identification of beneficiaries and distribution of foodgrains to such beneficiaries is the responsibility of the respective state/UT government.