Introduction:

The government has implemented several schemes to ensure food security for the poor. These schemes aim to provide affordable and nutritious food to vulnerable sections of society, addressing issues of hunger and malnutrition. Two prominent schemes launched by the government are the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and the Mid-Day Meal Scheme.

National Food Security Act (NFSA):

The National Food Security Act was enacted in 2013 with the objective of ensuring food security for the poor and marginalized populations of India. The key provisions of this act are:

1. Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS): Under this scheme, eligible households are entitled to receive subsidized food grains. The act categorizes beneficiaries into priority and general households. Priority households, which include households below the poverty line, are entitled to 5 kilograms of food grains per person per month at highly subsidized prices. General households receive 3 kilograms of food grains per person per month at subsidized rates.

2. Maternity Benefit: The NFSA also provides for maternity benefits to pregnant and lactating women. Eligible women are entitled to receive a cash transfer of Rs. 6,000 in installments. This financial support aims to improve the health and nutrition of women during pregnancy and lactation, ultimately benefiting their children.

Mid-Day Meal Scheme:

The Mid-Day Meal Scheme was launched in 1995 to provide nutritious meals to school children and promote universalization of primary education. Key features of this scheme include:

1. Free Nutritious Meals: The scheme ensures that every child in government and government-aided schools receives a free and nutritious meal. The meals provided include proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to the overall growth and development of children.

2. Improvement in School Attendance: The provision of mid-day meals has been instrumental in increasing school attendance and reducing dropout rates. By addressing the issue of hunger, the scheme encourages children from disadvantaged backgrounds to attend school regularly, thereby improving their educational outcomes.

Conclusion:

The government has taken significant steps to provide food security to the poor through schemes like the National Food Security Act and the Mid-Day Meal Scheme. These schemes not only aim to address the immediate issue of hunger but also work towards improving the overall health and nutrition of vulnerable populations. By ensuring access to affordable and nutritious food, the government plays a crucial role in reducing poverty and promoting the well-being of the citizens.