The central government has said that states are free to add nutrient-dense options like millets and seafood to the Public Distribution System (PDS) scheme from their own budgets. Union Minister Piyush Goyal said this in reply to a question in the Lok Sabha by YSRCP MP L S Devarayalu.
Goyal said that the central government provides free wheat and rice to 81 crore poor people under the PDS scheme. However, he added that states are free to add any other items they want to the scheme from their own budgets.
Devarayalu had asked the question in the context of a NITI Aayog paper that said the government is working on giving subsidies on protein-rich foods. He also mentioned the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, a government scheme that aims to boost the fisheries sector.
The central government’s decision to allow states to add nutrient-dense options to the PDS scheme is a welcome one. Millets and seafood are both excellent sources of protein and other nutrients that are essential for good health. Adding these items to the PDS scheme would help to improve the nutritional status of the poor.
However, it is important to note that states will need to have the financial resources to add these items to the PDS scheme. Some states may not be able to afford to do so.
Overall, the central government’s decision is a positive step that could help to improve the nutritional status of the poor. However, it is important to ensure that all states have the resources to implement the scheme effectively.
editor
17 December 2023