<span style="color: #222222;">In Meghalaya, the Jan Bhagidari Programme on Impact of Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), as part of 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' Campaign, was held today at Yojana Bhavan Auditorium, Main Secretariat, Shillong organised by the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department.<br />''<br />''Minister of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs James P. K. Sangma while addressing the gathering virtually praised the Department along with all the stakeholders; the fair price shops and wholesale dealers for ensuring that food grains are allocated and distributed to the beneficiaries in a timely manner in spite of challenges and threat of COVID-19.<br />''<br />''He informed that the PMGKAY is a food security welfare scheme of the Government of India which aims to feed the marginalised society of the country by providing free food grains. The scheme was first introduced from April to June 2020, during the stringent lockdown period in the country and has been extended six times, the latest extension being March to September 2022. The scheme has been a boon to the people during the COVID-19 pandemic, keeping the concern and sensitivity towards the poor and marginalised, it has mitigated the hardship faced and ensured food security to all, he added.<br />''<br />''Principal Secretary, FCS&CA Dr Shakil P. Ahammed, Commissioner and Secretary P. Bakshi along with Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills I. Laloo were present on this occasion. </span><br />