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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.

A 2019 study by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) found that AAY reduced the prevalence of moderate to severe food insecurity among beneficiary households by 28% compared to non-beneficiary BPL families. Monthly food expenditure dropped by 40% for AAY families, freeing income for other needs. aay 4 page

Expand the One Nation One Ration Card fully, but introduce offline fallback options (e.g., SMS-based codes) for biometric failures. Print ration books with QR codes for non-digital use. Introduce fortified rice (with iron and folic acid)

AAY provides only cereals (carbohydrates). It does not include pulses, oils, or micronutrients. Consequently, many AAY families suffer from “hidden hunger” – protein and vitamin deficiencies. Monthly food expenditure dropped by 40% for AAY

[Your Name] Course: [e.g., Public Policy / Economics / Social Work] Date: [Current Date] Abstract Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY), launched in December 2000 by the Government of India, represents a targeted intervention within the Public Distribution System (PDS) to address chronic hunger among the most destitute households. This paper examines the objectives, implementation mechanisms, impact, and challenges of AAY over two decades. By providing 35 kg of food grains per family per month at highly subsidized rates (₹3/kg for rice, ₹2/kg for wheat), AAY has significantly reduced food insecurity. However, issues such as identification errors, leakages, and coverage gaps persist. The paper concludes with policy recommendations for strengthening AAY’s effectiveness in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger). 1. Introduction Food security remains a fundamental challenge in developing economies. Despite India’s rapid economic growth, a substantial section of its population – particularly landless laborers, marginal farmers, and disabled or elderly-headed households – suffers from chronic undernourishment. Recognizing that universal PDS often excluded the hardest-to-reach, the Government of India introduced the Antyodaya Anna Yojana in December 2000. “Antyodaya” literally means “uplift of the last person” – a philosophy rooted in Mahatma Gandhi and later championed by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya.

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.

Establish a toll-free number and a mobile app for AAY beneficiaries to report missing quotas, poor quality, or bribe demands, with mandatory resolution within 7 days. 8. Conclusion The Antyodaya Anna Yojana embodies India’s constitutional commitment to the right to life (Article 21), which includes freedom from hunger. For over two decades, AAY has prevented famines, reduced chronic hunger, and provided dignity to millions of the poorest households. However, leakages, exclusion errors, and lack of nutritional diversity remain significant hurdles.