During the COVID-19 lockdown (March 2020), the government doubled AAY quotas (35 kg to 70 kg per month) free of cost under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY). This prevented widespread starvation and reverse migration deaths.
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). aay 4 page
Seasonal migration decreased in AAY-covered villages in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, as families could rely on assured grain during lean agricultural seasons. Page 3 of 4 5. Persistent Challenges and Criticisms Despite successes, AAY faces several structural and implementation weaknesses. During the COVID-19 lockdown (March 2020), the government
Because ration cards are often held by women, AAY improves their bargaining power within households and their role as decision-makers in food allocation. AAY families with pregnant women or children under
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.