Delhi: Distribution of sugar in branded packets to AAY cardholders to begin in January

Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta, on Saturday, approved the free distribution of sugar to all beneficiaries under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY). It will be implemented from January to March 2027, during which beneficiaries will receive 1 kilogram of sugar per month.

In a New Year initiative for the poor and marginalised sections of society, the Delhi cabinet, chaired by chief minister Rekha Gupta, has approved the free distribution of sugar to all beneficiaries under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY). According to a release, the scheme will be implemented from January 2026 to March 2027, covering 15 months and ensuring sustained support and improved food security for the most vulnerable groups.

Sharing details of the decision, the chief minister said that under this initiative, all AAY beneficiaries in Delhi will be provided one kilogram of sugar per month, free of cost, in properly branded and standardised packets. This initiative marks another concrete step in the Delhi government's pro-poor policies, ensuring both food security and access to quality supplies.

Currently, sugar is distributed in loose form through fair price shops, which often leads to issues such as dust, moisture, contamination, and inaccurate weighing. The shift to one-kilogram packaged and branded packets will ensure improved hygiene, safe storage, ease of handling and accurate measurement.

According to official estimates, 65,883 AAY families in Delhi will benefit from the scheme, with each eligible household receiving 1 kg of sugar per month. Until the finalisation and approval of a new tender for branded packaging, distribution will continue under the existing system to ensure uninterrupted supply to beneficiaries.

Chief minister Rekha Gupta said the Delhi Government is working in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision, which has consistently placed the welfare of the poor at the centre of governance. She added that the Delhi government remains committed to translating this vision into tangible outcomes through sustained efforts for the upliftment of the poor and disadvantaged.