With reference to the provisions made under the National Food Security Act, 2013, consider the following statements:
- 1.The families coming under the category of 'below poverty line (BPL)' only are eligible to receive subsidised food grains.
- 2.The eldest woman in a household, of age 18 years or above, shall be the head of the household for the purpose of issuance of a ration card.
- 3.Pregnant women and lactating mothers are entitled to a 'take-home ration' of 1600 calories per day during pregnancy and for six months thereafter.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.2 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.3 only
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: B. 2 only
The National Food Security Act, 2013, aims to provide highly subsidised food grains to eligible households. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Act includes Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) families and priority households, not just BPL families. Statement 3 is incorrect as the entitlement for pregnant women and lactating mothers is primarily focused on maternity benefits, and the specific calorie count mentioned for 'take-home ration' may not align with the primary provisions. Statement 2 correctly identifies the provision that the eldest woman aged 18 years and above is designated as the head of the household for ration card issuance, promoting women's empowerment.
Source: UPSC gs1 2018