Sugar Subsidy Scheme Extended for AAY Families till 2026

New Delhi, Feb 1 (PTI) The government on Thursday approved an extension of the subsidy scheme for sugar supplied to 1.89 crore Antyodya Anna Yojna (AAY) families through ration shops for two years till March 31, 2026.

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narender Modi, approved the extension of the scheme of sugar subsidy for AAY families distributed through the Public Distribution Scheme (PDS) for two more years till March 31, 2026.

With this approval, the government will continue giving a subsidy of Rs 18.50 per kg to participating states for the distribution of sugar to AAY families through PDS at the rate of one kg per family per month.

On the Cabinet decision to extend the sugar subsidy scheme for 1.89 crore poor families, Modi said his government has been continuously working to ensure that their nutrition and health do not suffer on any count.

States have the responsibility to procure and distribute sugar.

"Under the scheme, the central government gives a subsidy of Rs 18.50 per kg per month of sugar to AAY families of participating states.

"The approval is expected to extend benefits of more than Rs 1,850 crore during the period of the 15th Finance Commission (2020-21 to 2025-26). The scheme is expected to benefit about 1.89 crore AAY families of the country," an official statement said.

The scheme facilitates access to sugar for the poorest of the poor and adds energy to their diet so that their health improves.

The Centre is already giving free ration under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojna (PM-GKAY).

The sale of 'Bharat Atta', 'Bharat Dal', tomatoes and onions at affordable and fair prices are the measures to ensure sufficient food for the plate of citizens beyond PM-GKAY also.

So far, about 3 lakh tonnes of Bharat Dal (chana dal) and about 2.4 lakh tonnes of Bharat Atta have already been sold, benefitting ordinary consumers.

"Thus, availability of subsidized dal, atta and sugar have completed the food for a common citizen of India fulfilling Modi ki Guarantee of 'Food for All, Nutrition for All'," the statement said.