After being sworn in as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh at an oath-taking ceremony, Yogi Adityanath began his second tenure with an announcement that aims to benefit about 15 crore people. 

During his first Cabinet meeting on Saturday, the monk-turned-politician announced the extension of the free ration scheme for the upcoming three months. 

“Free ration scheme was scheduled to expire in March. Around 15 crore people are benefitting from it in the state,” he told reporters after the meeting. 

“In the cabinet meeting today, we have decided to extend the free ration scheme for the next 3 months. It will benefit 15 crore people of the state,” he added.

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While speaking to reporters, UP Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya added, “In the first cabinet meeting today, we have extended the free ration scheme for the next three months. For this, the government will spend Rs 3,270 crore. It will benefit 15 crore people.”

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Earlier on Friday, Yogi Adityanath took an oath at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, bustling with over 50,000 attendees. 52 ministers were sworn in during the ceremony, including two deputy CMs.

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According to the eligibility guidelines mentioned under the National Food Security (NFS) Act 2013, underprivileged people including domestic helpers, migrant workers, unorganised workers and construction workers can avail up to five kilograms of foodgrains for free. The grains include 4 kilograms of wheat and 1 kilogram of rice per person every month. 

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The scheme was launched to uplift economically weaker sections of the society during the pandemic. Previously scheduled to last until November 2021, the Centre extended Pradhan Mantri Garib Anna Yojana till March 2022.