The Punjab government on Monday announced the launch of the ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme aimed at providing nutritional support to nearly 40 lakh economically weaker families across the state
Punjab government on Monday announced the launch of the ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme
The Punjab government on Monday announced the launch of the ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme aimed at providing nutritional support to nearly 40 lakh economically weaker families across the state, while also confirming that the Budget Session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha will be held from March 6 to March 16.
Addressing a press conference in Chandigarh after the Cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said the newly introduced ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme would benefit all blue card holder families by providing free food kits in addition to wheat supplied under existing welfare programmes. He said the initiative has been designed to ensure that poor households receive quality and nutritious food on a regular basis.
Under the scheme, beneficiary families will receive food kits for three months at a time. For the first phase covering April, May and June, each family will be provided 2 kg chana dal, 2 kg sugar, 1 kg iodised salt, 200 grams turmeric powder and 1 litre mustard oil free of cost.
Mann said the government would carry out regular quality checks to ensure that beneficiaries receive standard food items comparable to those used in ordinary households.
The Chief Minister said the objective of the scheme is to address nutritional gaps among children and members of low income families. He noted that several children from economically weaker sections do not get balanced meals on time, which affects their health and growth. The government, he said, is committed to ensuring that every household has access to nutritious food and that no family is deprived of basic dietary needs.
Highlighting the government’s welfare approach, Mann said the administration continues to take decisions beyond electoral commitments to strengthen social security measures. He reiterated that Punjab, which has contributed significantly to the nation’s food security, must also ensure food and nutrition security for its own people.
The Chief Minister also announced that the Punjab Budget Session will commence on March 6 and continue till March 16, with the possibility of extension depending on legislative requirements. He said the upcoming Budget would focus on public welfare and address the needs of all sections of society.
