Chandigarh: The Punjab government is set to issue licences for 2,800 new ration depots under its new ration depot allocation policy, providing greater convenience to beneficiaries under the Public Distribution System (PDS).
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will distribute the new licences at an event held at Vikas Bhawan, Mohali. The initiative aims to ensure that people no longer have to travel long distances to collect their ration and can access food supplies closer to their homes.
2,800 New Ration Depots to Be Established Across Punjab
Under the new policy, the Punjab government will establish 2,800 additional ration depots across rural and urban areas of the state.
The allocation has been planned with a focus on social inclusion. Out of the total new depots:
- 633 depots will be allotted to Scheduled Caste beneficiaries.
- 199 depots will be allotted to backward class beneficiaries.
- 181 depots will be allotted to ex-servicemen.
- 39 depots will be allotted to freedom fighters.
- 156 depots will be allotted to persons with disabilities.
- 17 depots will be allotted to riot-affected families.
The government said the allocation process reflects its commitment towards social justice and transparent governance.
Read also: Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Distributes Appointment Letters to 665 PSPCL Candidates in Bathinda
5.5 Lakh Ration Card Holders to Benefit from New Depots
The opening of new ration depots is expected to benefit around 5.5 lakh ration card holders across Punjab.
With more distribution points available, beneficiaries will be able to collect government-provided foodgrains and essential supplies from nearby locations, reducing travel difficulties and waiting time.
The government aims to ensure that every eligible family receives the benefits of welfare schemes in a more convenient manner.
Punjab Currently Serves 40 Lakh Families Through 14,000 Ration Depots
At present, the Bhagwant Mann-led government is providing free wheat and ‘Meri Rasoi’ ration kits to around 40 lakh registered families under the Smart Ration Card Scheme through approximately 14,000 ration depots.
However, with the increase in the number of beneficiaries, several areas were facing pressure due to a high number of families linked to a single ration depot.
The new allocation policy has been introduced to address this issue and improve the efficiency of the ration distribution system.
Government Focuses on Doorstep Access and Transparent Distribution
The Punjab government said its key objective is to establish ration depots in every village and urban locality so that people can access essential food supplies near their homes.
The new ration depot policy is being described as a major step towards:
- Improving public convenience.
- Strengthening the PDS network.
- Ensuring transparent allocation.
- Promoting social justice.
- Expanding employment opportunities through new depot licences.
New Policy to Strengthen Welfare Delivery System in Punjab
The government believes that increasing the number of ration depots will make food distribution faster, easier and more accessible for citizens.The initiative is expected to benefit economically weaker sections by ensuring timely availability of essential commodities while also creating new opportunities for ration depot operators across the state.
