Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) Ration Card

Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) is a targeted food security programme that identifies the poorest of the poor households in India and provides them with 35 kg of food grain per family per month at highly subsidised rates. Since the merger of PMGKAY into NFSA in 2024, AAY households receive their full 35 kg entitlement free of cost — making it the most generous food security entitlement available.

AAY was launched in 2000 to specifically target the most vulnerable segments: landless agricultural labourers, marginal farmers, rural artisans, urban slum dwellers, widows, the elderly, disabled individuals with no support, and HIV-positive persons. Identification of AAY households is done by state governments based on specific criteria. AAY card holders get a distinct card (typically yellow in many states) and a higher entitlement than Priority Household (PHH) card holders.

If you believe your household qualifies for an AAY card but has only a PHH card, you can apply for reclassification at your state's Food Department. The criteria vary by state — contact your local fair price shop dealer or district supply office for the application form. Falsely claiming AAY status is a legal offence. Our editorial team verified AAY entitlements and eligibility parameters against the NFS Act provisions and DFPD portal, July 2026.