Karnataka’s Anna Bhagya Scheme

Introduction

The ‘Anna Bhagya‘ scheme in Karnataka, which guarantees 10 kg of rice to Below Poverty Line (BPL) cardholders, has hit a roadblock due to a shortage of rice. Despite approaching neighboring states for procurement, the Karnataka government is struggling to secure an adequate rice supply to implement the scheme.
The shortfall in rice availability poses a significant challenge to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s efforts to provide free rice to BPL families.

Shortfall in Rice Procurement

Karnataka’s Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed concerns about the state’s ability to procure the required amount of rice for the ‘Anna Bhagya’ scheme. While the state needs 2.28 lakh metric tonnes of rice, they have only managed to secure 1.5 lakh metric tonnes. Telangana and Andhra Pradesh declined Karnataka’s request for rice procurement, citing insufficient stock. Even Congress-ruled Chhattisgarh, approached by Karnataka, offered a lower quantity than required.

Requirement and Available Supplies

• To successfully launch the ‘Anna Bhagya’ scheme, Karnataka needs 4.45 lakh metric tonnes of rice to distribute 10 kg to all BPL cardholders in the state.
• Under the National Food Security Act, the state can avail 2.17 lakh metric tonnes from the central government.
• However, to fulfill the promise of providing an additional 5 kg of rice, as previously offered to Priority Households, Karnataka requires at least 2.28 lakh metric tonnes of rice. The current shortfall poses a significant obstacle in ensuring the scheme’s full implementation.

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About Karnataka’s Anna Bhagya Scheme

• It is also called as ‘Karnataka Free Rice Distribution Scheme’ in which free of cost food grains will be given to the people of state belonging to below poverty line.
• Under this scheme, 5 kg rice will be given by the state government & additional 5 kg will be provided to the state under the food security act by the Union government.
• There is no cap on family members, every family member will get free of cost 10 Kg rice per month per head.
• It will be implemented from 1st of July 2023.

About Food Corporation of India

• Food Corporation of India is a statutory body created and run by the Government of India.
• It is under the ownership of Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
• It was founded in 14 January 1965 & is headquartered in New Delhi.
• Its Chairman & Managing Director is Ashok Kumar Meena.

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