Proposed NFSA Amendment: Redefining Food Grain Allocation for the Poorest
The Union Food and Public Distribution Department published a draft of proposed amendments to the National Food Security Act (NFSA) on June 24, 2026. The draft is available on the department's website, and the public can comment until July 13.
The key change involves Section 3 of the NFSA, 2013. It proposes that each person in a household covered under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) receive 7 kg of food grains per month, with a maximum of 35 kg per household. Currently, AAY households get 35 kg regardless of family size. Under the new rule, this allocation would be free for AAY cardholders.
The government says the existing household-based system leads to inequities: smaller households get more per person, while larger households get less, sometimes below what priority households receive. The amendment aims to remove 'intra-category inequities,' rationalise allocation, and better align entitlements with nutritional needs.
However, some Opposition-ruled states and activists have raised concerns. Kerala's Food Minister Anoop Jacob said the state will oppose the change, arguing that the current 35 kg per household allocation should continue. He warned that the amendment could reduce allocations to states like Kerala.
Right to Food Campaign's Anuradha Talwar said the amendment could create a 'North-South divide,' as southern families tend to be smaller and would receive less grain. She also noted that AAY coverage has not been revised due to census delays, leaving many eligible families out. Activists have been demanding a per-person allocation of 14 kg, along with pulses and edible oil, arguing that the poorest cannot afford market prices for essentials.
The next steps include public comment review, then consultation with state governments and departments, followed by a final draft placed before Parliament. This process is unlikely to be completed in the upcoming Monsoon Session. Given the political sensitivity—with state elections approaching—the government is expected to proceed cautiously.
