Chandigarh: In a major initiative aimed at improving nutrition for low-income families, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced the launch of the ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme, which will benefit approximately 40 lakh families holding blue ration cards.
Key Highlights of the Meri Rasoi Scheme
Under this scheme, eligible families will receive a three-month food kit in one go. Each kit will include:
- 2 kg Moong/Chana dal
- 2 kg sugar
- 1 kg iodized salt
- 2 kg turmeric powder
- 1 liter mustard oil
CM Mann stated that the existing wheat distribution program will continue alongside this new initiative. The first phase of food kit distribution is scheduled to begin in April, and the scheme will be managed by Markfed and the Food & Civil Supplies Department.
Focus on Nutrition and Quality
Highlighting the need for better nutrition, CM Mann said that many children in economically weaker families were not getting adequate nutrition. To address this, quality checks will be conducted regularly to ensure that all distributed food items meet the prescribed standards.
Additional Budget Announcements
CM Mann also announced that the Punjab budget session will run from 6th March to 16th March, with the budget being presented on Sunday, 8th March, for the first time. On International Women’s Day, women will receive ₹1,000, and the upcoming budget will focus on public welfare and social development programs.
Implementation and Oversight
The scheme will be implemented quarterly, ensuring timely delivery to all beneficiaries. CM Mann emphasized that this initiative reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring food security and strengthening nutrition for vulnerable families in Punjab.
Read also: Punjab Govt Disburses ₹5,748 Crore to Over 35 Lakh Beneficiaries Under Social Welfare Schemes
