The Nagaland government has announced an ambitious expansion of its food security coverage under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013. The new guidelines aim to bring 70.95% of the state’s population under the protective umbrella of food assistance programs. The initiative will benefit 2,37,434 households, translating to approximately 11,93,922 individuals who will receive food provisions through the Priority Household (PHH) scheme. In addition, the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) will support 47,500 households, covering 2,09,657 beneficiaries. However, 29.05% of the state’s population remains outside the purview of the NFSA based on the latest census data.
To address gaps and ensure maximum inclusion, the state government has streamlined the allocation process for food grains through the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS). These enhanced measures are critical to reaching those in need, particularly during crises. Nagaland’s robust distribution network consists of 1,852 fair price shops—459 in urban areas and 1,342 in rural regions—ensuring convenient access to essential supplies. As per the NFSA, rice and other food grains will be distributed free of cost to PHH and AAY cardholders until December 2028, following directives from the Government of India.
To further strengthen the system, the government has announced an additional allocation of food grains to maintain the average distribution levels observed over the past three years. This supplementary stock will be available for purchase at government-approved rates through designated stockists and handling agents. Significantly, the revised guidelines also extend the extra rice allocation to General Household (GHH) ration cardholders with an income of Rs 2.5 lakh or more who do not qualify under the AAY or PHH schemes. In a bid to ensure transparency, the details of GHH beneficiaries will be digitized and made accessible on the department’s website. With these steps, the Nagaland government is advancing its mission to secure food availability and support the welfare of its most vulnerable citizens.
