SC Criticizes Outdated Census for Food Security Act

Why in the news?

The Supreme Court questioned the reliance on the outdated 2011 Census for the National Food Security Act, highlighting issues with ration distribution and the exclusion of eligible beneficiaries.

SC Criticizes Outdated Census for Food Security Act

Reliance on 2011 Census for NFSA:

  • Advocate Prashant Bhushan argued that the National Food Security Act (NFSA) calculations are based on the outdated 2011 Census, excluding many eligible beneficiaries.
  • The NFSA currently covers 81.35 crore beneficiaries, but Mr. Bhushan claimed up to 10 crore additional individuals could qualify if a new Census were conducted.
  • The pandemic and worsening conditions for the poor since 2020 highlight the need for updated beneficiary data.

Issues with Ration Distribution:

  • The court heard petitions by activists, including Anjali Bharadwaj and Harsh Mander, seeking welfare measures for distressed migrant workers during COVID-19.
  • Bhushan emphasized gaps in ration card issuance, preventing many migrants and poor individuals from accessing benefits.

Supreme Court’s Observations:

  • Justice Surya Kant stressed the importance of coordination between the Centre and States to address food insecurity.
  • The court cautioned against States issuing ration cards without ensuring the Centre’s capacity to provide rations.
  • The Centre stated that 27.45 crore unorganized workers or migrants are registered on the e-Shram portal, aiding welfare measures.
  • The Bench underscored employment generation as a long-term solution to food insecurity issues.

National Food Security Act (NFSA) 2013: Key Highlights

  • Objective: Ensures food and nutritional security by providing quality food at affordable prices to uphold dignity.
  • Coverage: Up to 75% of rural and 50% of urban populations under the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS).
  • Beneficiary Categories:
  • Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY): 35 kg food grains monthly.
  • Priority Households (PHH): 5 kg food grains per person monthly at subsidized rates.
  • Additional Benefits:
  • Nutritious meals for children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers under ICDS and Mid-Day Meal schemes.
  • Maternity benefits of Rs 6,000.

PM-GKAY (2020-2023)

  • COVID-19 relief: 5 kg free food grains per person monthly under NFSA.
  • Merged with NFSA in 2022, extending free distribution of food grains until December 2023.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times