Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY) was introduced by the Government of India in December 2016. It is a large-scale welfare initiative aimed at supporting the economically vulnerable sections of the population, particularly during a period of crisis. The scheme was formulated to offer immediate relief to the most economically disadvantaged section of society. It provides free food grains, insurance coverage, cash transfer, and other essential services.
In 2020, the Government of India expanded the scheme to include relief packages during the pandemic, to support the livelihood of the poor during the lockdown (COVID-19)
Overview of PMGKY – Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana
| Name of Scheme | PMGKY Scheme |
| Name of Ministry | Ministry of Finance |
| Full Name | Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana |
| Date of Launch | Dec 17, 2016 |
| Official Site | https://www.indiabudget.gov.in |
Objective of PMGKY
PMGKY – Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana – was first launched to recover black money by giving taxpayers a chance to declare undisclosed income without facing prosecution.
- PMGKY offered a one-time chance to declare unaccounted income without penalties with a 49.9% tax on the disclosed amount.
- It was expanded in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As the pandemic severely affected the economy, the government aimed to support poor and vulnerable people with economic support.
- The Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister, M.S. Nirmala Sitaraman, announced a relief package of 1.70 lakh crore under PMGKY.
Benefits of PMGKY
- Candidates who belong to Priority Household (PHH) and Antodaya (AAY) families can get free food grains.
- Women candidates who have an active Jan Dhan Yojana account can receive Rs. 500/- per month.
- Individuals who registered under the PM Kishan scheme will receive Rs. 2500.
- Poor senior citizens, widows, and people can receive a one-time cash amount.
- Frontline health workers involved in COVID management will get health insurance.
Key advantages offered by Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana
- Promoting access to financial services.
- Essential food supplies.
- Supporting women to become self-reliant.
- Improving economic growth in rural areas.
- Social welfare support.
- Healthcare Assistance.
- Economic and social support during a crisis.
Required documents
- Valid Ration Card (PHH/AAY)
- Ration card linked with the Aadhar card.
- Bank account Xerox.
- MGNREGA/EPFO/PDS card.
Eligibility Criteria of Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana
- Applicants who belong to the BPL Groups are eligible to apply for PMGKY.
- The state government and union territory choose priority households using guidelines and criteria fortified by the state government and the union territory.
Application process – PMGKY
There is no separate application process for the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana. For detailed information regarding this scheme, go through the official site.