Punjab Launches ‘Meri Rasoi’ Scheme to Provide Quarterly Food Kits to 40 Lakh Families

The Punjab government has announced a large-scale welfare initiative aimed at strengthening food security for economically vulnerable households across the state. Under the newly introduced ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme, nearly 40 lakh families will receive essential food kits beginning April 2026, in addition to the subsidised wheat already distributed through the public distribution system.

The decision was approved during a state cabinet meeting, with officials describing the programme as a significant step toward improving nutritional intake among low-income families registered under the National Food Security Act and the state’s Smart Ration Card system. The scheme is designed to supplement existing food support and ensure access to basic cooking essentials that are often beyond the reach of financially struggling households.

Each beneficiary family will receive a quarterly kit containing staple items such as pulses, sugar, iodised salt, turmeric powder and mustard oil. These supplies are intended to complement the grain distributed through fair price shops and help households prepare more balanced meals. Officials said the inclusion of protein-rich pulses and cooking oil is particularly important in addressing nutritional gaps identified in recent assessments.

The state government cited concerns over malnutrition and inadequate dietary diversity among children and economically weaker sections. Authorities noted that despite Punjab’s reputation as a major agricultural producer, many families continue to face food insecurity and limited access to nutritious ingredients. The Meri Rasoi scheme aims to bridge this gap by directly delivering essential food items to eligible households at regular intervals.

Implementation of the programme will involve coordination between the food and civil supplies department and state-run distribution agencies to ensure timely packaging and delivery of kits. The government has also emphasised that quality control measures will be put in place to maintain standards and prevent any compromise in the items supplied.

The distribution will take place four times a year, with the first phase scheduled to begin in April. Subsequent rounds are planned at fixed intervals to provide consistent support throughout the year. Officials have indicated that significant budgetary provisions have been made to sustain the scheme and ensure uninterrupted supply.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann described the initiative as a commitment to the welfare of the people, particularly those struggling with rising living costs. He said the scheme reflects the government’s resolve to ensure that no household in Punjab faces hunger or nutritional deprivation. As the rollout approaches, the Meri Rasoi programme is being viewed as a major social support measure aimed at strengthening the state’s food security network. By expanding access to essential kitchen staples, the government hopes to enhance the quality of life for millions of families and reinforce its broader agenda of inclusive development.