Karnataka Government Considers Distributing Pulses and Oil to BPL Families Under Anna Bhagya

Food and Civil Supplies Minister K.H. Muniyappa announced on Tuesday that the government is considering distributing pulses, sugar, or cooking oil to below poverty line (BPL) cardholders as an alternative to the current provision of cash or rice under the Anna Bhagya scheme. Muniyappa cited a recent survey indicating that 93 percent of BPL cardholders prefer receiving essential items like pulses, sugar, or cooking oil instead of cash. He plans to discuss the potential shift with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and relevant officials.

During a meeting with Union Food Minister Pralhad Joshi, Muniyappa received assurances that the Centre would supply any required quantity of rice for distribution to the state’s poor. He noted that the Central government is already providing 5 kg of rice per person to BPL cardholders under the PM Garib Kalyan Yojana. Muniyappa expressed concerns that offering additional rice through the Anna Bhagya scheme might overwhelm beneficiaries, underscoring the need to explore alternative options like distributing other essential food items.