Maha government to distribute subsidised Anandacha Shidha food packets, ahead of Gudhi Padwa, Ambedkar Jayanti

The move is expected to benefit nearly 1,63,000 eligible ration card holders and beneficiaries of the Antyodaya scheme, which is a central food programme for the poorest of the poor.

Last year, a similar packet was distributed during the Diwali season but its limited reach invited criticism from the Opposition. The Eknath Shinde-BJP government has taken this populist move to provide support to those in need. The food packet will be distributed to all the districts in Aurangabad and Amravati divisions and Wardha from Nagpur division.

According to the government's statement, 14 suicide-prone districts have been identified where each and every ration card holder can get the “Shidha” packet. The move is expected to benefit those who are struggling to make ends meet and improve their quality of life.

In addition, the cabinet also approved the revised estimate for the upper Pravara dam in the Ahmednagar district. The revised cost of the proposed expenditure is Rs 5,177 crore.

Once complete, nearly 68,000 hectares will get direct irrigation due to the dam. The beneficiaries will be from Sangamner, Akole, Rahuri, Rahta, Kopargaon and Sinnar from Nashik district.