Chief Minister Baghel to PM Modi : Requests extension of PM Gareeb Kalyan Ann Yojana for three months

Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has written letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting extension of ‘Pradhan Mantri Gareeb Kalyan Ann Yojana’ for next three months till September 2020. He stated that in the adverse circumstances due to corona crisis, Central Government’s Pradhan Mantri Gareeb Kalyan Ann Yojana has helped in ensuring avaiability of foodgrains in the country. In Chhattisgarh, besides the 51.50 lakh ration card beneficiary families identified under National Food Security Act and Universal PDS, State Government is providing food security to 14.10 lakh additional ration card holding families under its various schemes. These 14.10 lakh ration card holding beneficiary families identified by the state should aso be benefitted under Pradhan Mantri Gareeb Kalyan Ann Yojana.

Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel stated in the letter that lockdown is being gradually lifted and economic activities are being carefully resumed, but return to normalcy may take more time. Presently, the situation is extremely difficult for farmers, agro-labourers, construction workers, industrial workers and poor-middle class employees as well as for the most of common people. Mr. Baghel requested Mr. Modi in the letter that keeping in view the present scenario, Central Government’s ‘Pradhan Mantri Gareeb Kalyan Ann Yojana’ should be extended for next three months till September 2020, to bring relief to the crisis-affected families. Also the 14.10 ration card beneficiary families identified by the state besides those under National Food Security Act should also be included under Pradhan Mantro Gareeb Kalyan Ann Yojana to ensure food security. Free distribution of food grains will not only relieve the people in need from concerns of food security but will also give a positive message to common people. Chief Minister expressed hope that his request would be considered and a positive decision will be taken in interest of the state