Covid-19 relief: Centre mulls extending scheme for free grains and pulses

For wheat, rice and pulses (notably chana), the central government has enough stock to ensure additional supplies for the next 3-4 months

The Centre is “actively considering” extending the scheme for free distribution of food grains and pulses under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY) for another 3-4 months, according to sources. This might provide relief to millions of poor families affected by the pandemic, especially as another surge is being witnessed in Covid-19 cases.

For both wheat and rice, as also pulses (notably chana), the central government has enough stock to ensure additional supplies for the next 3-4 months. A number of senior officials confirmed to Business Standard that details had been sought from various agencies that had been