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Beneficiaries often complain of adulterated or insect-infested wheat and rice. In some states, FCI provides low-quality “fair average quality” grains that are barely edible.
[Your Name] Course: [e.g., Public Policy / Economics / Social Work] Date: [Current Date] Abstract Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY), launched in December 2000 by the Government of India, represents a targeted intervention within the Public Distribution System (PDS) to address chronic hunger among the most destitute households. This paper examines the objectives, implementation mechanisms, impact, and challenges of AAY over two decades. By providing 35 kg of food grains per family per month at highly subsidized rates (₹3/kg for rice, ₹2/kg for wheat), AAY has significantly reduced food insecurity. However, issues such as identification errors, leakages, and coverage gaps persist. The paper concludes with policy recommendations for strengthening AAY’s effectiveness in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger). 1. Introduction Food security remains a fundamental challenge in developing economies. Despite India’s rapid economic growth, a substantial section of its population – particularly landless laborers, marginal farmers, and disabled or elderly-headed households – suffers from chronic undernourishment. Recognizing that universal PDS often excluded the hardest-to-reach, the Government of India introduced the Antyodaya Anna Yojana in December 2000. “Antyodaya” literally means “uplift of the last person” – a philosophy rooted in Mahatma Gandhi and later championed by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya.
Introduce fortified rice (with iron and folic acid) under AAY, as already done in some states. Include a monthly quota of 2 kg of pulses and 1 liter of edible oil at nominal cost (₹10/kg pulses) funded by reallocating from less effective subsidies. aay 4 page
Even with digitization, the National Statistical Office (NSO) reported that 23% of AAY grains never reached beneficiaries due to diversion to open markets, bogus ration cards, or pilferage by FPS owners. This is lower than pre-AAY levels (36%) but still significant.
AAY covers only about 15% of India’s population. However, post-COVID, many economists argue that an additional 20–30% of vulnerable non-poor households (e.g., rickshaw pullers, small shopkeepers) face episodic hunger and should be included. bogus ration cards
Because ration cards are often held by women, AAY improves their bargaining power within households and their role as decision-makers in food allocation.
Integrate AAY with Anganwadi services and school mid-day meals. AAY families with pregnant women or children under 6 should receive additional take-home rations (eggs, milk powder). or pilferage by FPS owners.
Raise AAY coverage from 2.5 crore to 5 crore households, especially in urban slums. For families with more than 5 members, provide 45 kg per month or shift to per-capita allocation (7 kg per person/month).
