The present study explores the scalability and feasibility of some of the major central government programmes, such as the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi, and other possible methods of direct payments, by analysing their fiscal costs and physical storage requirements. Different models of price and income support have been discussed and a comparative picture has been drawn. The PM-AASHA and PM-KISAN are fiscally the most and the least expensive programmes. A judicious mix of policies is needed depending on the importance of the commodity in the public distribution system, adequacy of market demand, and whether the production is localised or limited.
