Correct Option
The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) is a government scheme designed to ensure food security for the most vulnerable sections of society. It operates as a sub-component of the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS), specifically focusing on the most destitute households.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: The scheme was launched on 25th December 2000 by the Government of India to address hunger among the poorest segments of the population.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The scheme did not target all families living Below the Poverty Line (BPL) generally. Instead, it specifically identified one crore "poorest of the poor" families from amongst the BPL families covered under TPDS. While the coverage has expanded over time, the core objective remains targeting the most marginalized subset of the BPL population.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The scheme provided foodgrains at highly subsidized rates, not at prevailing market rates. Under AAY, beneficiaries are entitled to receive foodgrains at ₹2 per kg for wheat and ₹3 per kg for rice.
Key Takeaway: The Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) targets the poorest of the poor among BPL families, providing them with foodgrains at heavily subsidized central issue prices (₹2/kg for wheat and ₹3/kg for rice).