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Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) - Poorest Families Food
Complete 2026 guide to AAY: 35kg free ration monthly at ₹2/kg rice ₹3/kg wheat for 2.5 crore poorest households.
Last updated: 8 March 2026
Overview
Why launched: 2.5 crore poorest families need assured food security. AAY (2000) identifies "poorest of poor" getting 35kg/month at highly subsidized rates via PDS.
Core Benefits: ₹2/kg rice, ₹3/kg wheat (35kg total), fortified atta, kerosene subsidy. Priority in distribution. ONORC portability. DBT kerosene subsidy. Nutrition kits pregnant women.
Implementation: Identified via state surveys + SECC. Yellow ration cards. Biometric authentication FPS. By 2026, 99% Aadhaar seeding, zero leakage via POS machines.
Success Stats: 2.37 crore families covered, ₹50,000 crore annual subsidy, malnutrition reduced 15%.
Who is Eligible?
- Poorest households (BPL extreme)
- Disabled/elderly/single women
- Disabled family members
- Widows/deserted women
- State-identified families
Documents Required
- Yellow AAY ration card
- Aadhaar seeded
- Bank for kerosene DBT
- Photo family members
- Verification documents
Process & Guidelines
Step 1: Apply district food office
Step 2: Socio-economic survey verification
Step 3: Yellow ration card issued
Step 4: Monthly 35kg @ subsidized rates
Step 5: ONORC portability anywhere
Step 6: Grievance via helpline 1967