Correct option is B
The government scheme that provides subsidised food grains to poor households in India is (b) Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana
This scheme was specifically designed to provide food security to the poor, especially in light of the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Under this initiative, eligible families receive additional free food grains over and above their normal entitlements under the National Food Security Act.
Objective
The primary objective of PMGKAY is to ensure that no poor person goes hungry during times of crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The scheme aims to provide additional free food grains to the beneficiaries of the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013.
Background
PMGKAY was initially launched as part of a larger relief package in March 2020, following the nationwide lockdown due to the COVID-19 outbreak. It was designed to supplement the existing NFSA under which beneficiaries already receive highly subsidized food grains.
Key Features
Coverage: The scheme covers over 800 million individuals, essentially the entire beneficiary base of the NFSA.
Food Grain Allocation: Under the scheme, each beneficiary is entitled to an additional 5 kg of food grains (wheat or rice) per month, free of cost.
Duration: Although initially intended as a temporary measure for a few months, the scheme has been extended multiple times due to the continuing impact of the pandemic on the poor.