Anandacha Shidha scheme: Govt to provide subsidised food kits to 1.7 crore families during Ganesh festival

Similar kits were distributed in 2023 for Gudi Padwa, Dr. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary, Ganesh Festival, and Diwali.

In 2024, kits were also distributed during the consecration ceremony of the Sri Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
This year, the kit will include one kilogram each of rava (suji), chana dal, and sugar, along with one liter of soybean oil. The scheme will run from August 15 to September 15.

The government has expedited the tender process, reducing it from 21 days to eight days to ensure timely delivery.
The total cost of the scheme is estimated at Rs 562.51 crore.

“The kit will be available at ration shops once the tenders are finalized. Distribution will occur over 30 days, starting from August 15,” said an official from the Food and Civil Supplies Department.

This scheme is part of the broader package of sops announced by the Maharashtra government in anticipation of the assembly elections.

The state government has earmarked Rs 25,500 crore for the CM Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme, which provides monthly financial aid of Rs 1,500 directly to women aged 21 to 65.

Additionally, Rs 5,500 crore will be allocated to the Chief Minister Yuva Karya Prashikshan Yojana internship scheme for unemployed youth.

The government will also cover 100 per cent of tuition and examination fees for girls from other backward classes and economically weaker sections with an annual family income of up to Rs 8 lakh.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister Teerth Darshan Yojana will offer senior citizens with an annual income of up to Rs 2.5 lakh Rs 30,000 to cover travel, accommodation, and food expenses.