On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the distribution of free food benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) for over two lakh beneficiaries in Surat, as part of the Surat District Food Security Satisfaction Campaign. During the event, PM Modi highlighted the efforts of Surat to uplift the deprived sections of society, describing the “Surti Spirit” as a symbol of dedication, charity, and public service.
“The ‘Surti Spirit,’ known for its dedication to work, charity, and public service, was evident today in the efforts to uplift the deprived and poor sections of society. Through the Food Security Satisfaction Campaign, Surat has taken a significant step toward ensuring proper nutrition and food security for its needy citizens. This initiative reflects the spirit of true fulfillment, not just appeasement,” said the Prime Minister.
The event, organized by the State Department of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs, saw the Prime Minister distribute benefits under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) to elderly individuals, Divyangs, and ‘Ganga Swarupa’ mothers and sisters—recognized as ‘Priority Households’ (PHH) under the state government’s pension assistance scheme.
The initiative aims to strengthen food and nutritional security for the most underprivileged families, reinforcing the government’s commitment to social welfare. PM Modi, accompanied by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Union Minister CR Patil, symbolically distributed grain kits to the beneficiaries.
“Delivering benefits without discrimination fosters true inclusivity,” the Prime Minister emphasized, commending the district administration’s proactive governance in distributing benefits under various schemes such as the Ganga Swarupa Aarthik Sahay Yojana, Old Age Pension Yojana, and Divyang Sahay Yojana. He reaffirmed that when a scheme is designed with the right intent, it truly uplifts the poor and the needy.
PM Modi further highlighted that PMGKAY has been a lifeline for millions of impoverished families during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to provide free food grains to ensure no poor family goes hungry, even in the post-pandemic era. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to making India free from anemia and malnutrition.
“This campaign proves that when a scheme is designed with the right intent and policies, it effectively uplifts the poor and the needy,” he added.
The Prime Minister also praised Surat as a “Mini India,” noting that the city, known for its entrepreneurial spirit, provides not only sustenance but also a foundation for a secure and prosperous future for its residents, including millions of migrants who have found opportunities for growth.
With over 81 crore beneficiaries, PMGKAY is the world’s largest food security program. PM Modi announced its extension for another five years starting from January 2024, ensuring continued support for approximately 81 crore beneficiaries across India.
Reflecting on past injustices, the Prime Minister highlighted the elimination of fraudulent ration cards and the 100% digitization of ration cards, ensuring transparency and efficiency in food distribution. He also mentioned the successful implementation of the ‘One Nation, One Ration Card’ policy, which allows beneficiaries to access food grains anywhere in the country.
At the event, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel reiterated PM Modi’s commitment to ensuring that no poor or marginalized individual goes hungry. He emphasized that initiatives like the PM Jan Dhan Yojana, PM Ujjwala Yojana, PM Awas Yojana, and others have greatly improved the lives of the underprivileged, lifting 25 crore people out of poverty in the past decade.
Union Minister CR Patil also praised the government’s inclusive efforts, particularly its initiatives for Divyang individuals, and emphasized the importance of empowering them for financial independence and dignity.
PM Modi was presented with a wooden idol of Maa Annapurna, crafted using GI-tagged Sadeli wooden art, along with a traditional zari-worked ‘khes’ from Surat’s rich heritage. He also signed paintings created by Divyang artists, recognizing their talent and inspiring them further.
The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including MPs, ministers, officials, and citizens, all of whom celebrated this significant step toward ensuring food security for the most vulnerable sections of society.