UP To Begin Distribution Of Free Ration With Millets in 23 Districts

Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government has started a new round of free ration distribution that now includes millets alongside traditional staples. Beginning Thursday, eligible families in 23 districts will receive a mix of grains from fair-price shops under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).

Officials say this marks a shift in how food support is being delivered. In addition to the usual wheat and rice, beneficiaries will now get millet, known locally as Shri Anna, in their monthly ration bundles.

The 23 districts where free rations will be distributed are Aligarh, Etah, Kasganj, Hathras, Agra, Firozabad, Mathura, Mainpuri, Etawah, Auraiya, Kannauj, Kanpur Dehat, Kanpur Nagar, Farrukhabad, Badaun, Bareilly, Shahjahanpur, Amroha, Sambhal, Unnao, and Bulandshahr.

Who Gets What?

Under the updated distribution plan, Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) cardholders will receive a quota of 14 kg wheat, 11 kg rice, and 10 kg millets per card during this cycle. Priority Household (PHH) card holders will also get their share of millets along with the regular grains. 

The millet inclusion reflects a growing focus on nutrition and food security. Millets are rich in fiber and micronutrients and are considered climate-resilient crops. 

Experts note such grains can help diversify diets and improve nutritional outcomes, especially in rural areas where diet quality is a concern.

How Will This Help People on the Ground?

Many beneficiaries said the addition of millets gave them more variety in their food baskets. Some also pointed out that keeping millets in regular diets could help with health issues like diabetes and digestive problems. Nutritionists say millets are better than refined grains in these respects, though widespread acceptance will take time.

Is This a One-Time Move or Part of a Bigger Plan?

Officials frame the move as part of broader efforts to strengthen food security and support farmers growing coarse cereals such as jowar and bajra. Last season, Uttar Pradesh saw record government procurement of these grains at minimum support prices, reflecting growing production. 

Food and civil supplies officials say the millet distribution will continue district by district, with details posted at ration shops and through local administration channels. Cards must be linked with Aadhaar and e-KYC completed to receive supplies.

What’s Next?

Authorities are monitoring the first phase of distribution closely. They hope the millet move will boost both consumption and local markets for these crops. There’s also talk of possibly expanding the scheme to more districts in the future, depending on logistics and stocks.