Daily Current Affairs : 16-August-2023
In a commendable stride towards addressing the nutritional needs of its citizens, the Rajasthan government introduced the Annapurna food packet scheme. This initiative, aimed at benefiting approximately 1.10 crore individuals, particularly focuses on impoverished and destitute families who were identified during a survey conducted amidst the pandemic. The scheme’s core intent is to bolster the lives of families encompassed by the National Food Security Act (NFSA), ensuring their access to essential sustenance.
Inclusive Beneficiaries
The scheme’s beneficiaries encompass an array of vulnerable groups, with a primary focus on families identified during the pandemic survey and those already covered by the NFSA. This inclusive approach ensures that families who have been rendered economically vulnerable due to the pandemic’s repercussions receive the necessary support to sustain themselves. In addition to families already supported through the NFSA, families that received a monetary assistance of ₹5,500 each during the pandemic will also be eligible to receive the food packets.
Nourishment at No Cost
Under the Annapurna food packet scheme, eligible beneficiaries will be provided with monthly food packets without incurring any cost. The scheme’s magnitude and reach are remarkable, with the State government dedicating ₹4,500 crore annually for its successful implementation. This financial commitment underscores the government’s dedication to the welfare of its citizens, especially those who are most susceptible to food insecurity.
Contents of the Food Packet
The food packets provided under the scheme contain an assortment of essential food items that cater to the nutritional requirements of families. Each packet includes:
- One kilogram each of gram pulses, sugar, and iodised salt.
- One litre of soybean refined edible oil.
- 100 grams each of chilli powder and coriander powder.
- 50 grams of turmeric powder.
This meticulously curated selection of food items ensures that the beneficiaries receive a well-rounded and nutritionally balanced diet, essential for their overall well-being.
Distribution Mechanism and Fair Price Shops (FPS)
Distribution of the Annapurna food packets is facilitated through the fair price shops (FPS). These FPS will play a pivotal role in delivering the food packets to eligible beneficiaries. In return for their services, the FPS will receive a commission of ₹10 per packet. This system not only ensures efficient delivery but also incentivizes the participation of FPS, thus creating a mutually beneficial arrangement.
Important Points:
- Introduction to the Annapurna food packet scheme launched by the Rajasthan government.
- Aimed at benefiting approximately 1.10 crore individuals, especially impoverished and destitute families identified during a pandemic survey.
- Focus on families covered by the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and those who received ₹5,500 pandemic assistance.
- Monthly food packets provided at no cost to eligible beneficiaries.
- State government allocates ₹4,500 crore annually for scheme implementation, showcasing commitment to citizens’ welfare.
- Food packets include essential items:
- 1 kg each of gram pulses, sugar, and iodised salt.
- 1 litre of soybean refined edible oil.
- 100 grams each of chilli powder and coriander powder.
- 50 grams of turmeric powder.
- Distribution through fair price shops (FPS) with a commission of ₹10 per packet.
- FPS play a crucial role in efficient delivery to beneficiaries.
- Scheme reflects inclusive approach by supporting families from pandemic survey and NFSA.
- Expected substantial impact on beneficiaries’ lives, addressing food insecurity effectively.
Why In News
The Annapurna food packet scheme, initiated by the Rajasthan government, is poised to bring nourishment to approximately 1.10 crore people, addressing their essential sustenance needs. This innovative program demonstrates the state’s commitment to ensuring food security and well-being for its citizens, exemplifying progressive governance in action.
MCQs about Rajasthan’s Annapurna Food Packet Scheme
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What is the primary objective of the Annapurna food packet scheme introduced by the Rajasthan government?
A. Providing monetary assistance to families during the pandemic.
B. Offering free food packets to affluent families.
C. Ensuring nutritional support to vulnerable populations.
D. Promoting agricultural practices in the state.
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Which groups of families are the scheme’s beneficiaries?
A. Only families covered by the National Food Security Act (NFSA).
B. Families with higher income levels.
C. Families receiving monetary assistance from the government.
D. Families identified during a pandemic survey and those under NFSA.
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What are the contents of the monthly food packets provided under the scheme?
A. Only pulses and refined edible oil.
B. Pulses, sugar, and salt.
C. Refined edible oil and spices.
D. A variety of essential food items including pulses, oil, sugar, and spices.
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How are the food packets distributed to eligible beneficiaries?
A. Through grocery stores.
B. Direct delivery to households.
C. By government officials.
D. Via fair price shops (FPS) with a commission per packet.
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