Chandigarh, October 26 — The Punjab government will begin home delivery of ration to 1.42 crore residents under a revamped version of its ‘Atta-Dal’ welfare scheme, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced on Saturday. The programme, rebranded as the ‘Complete Ration Package,’ aims to provide comprehensive food assistance to the poor and middle-income families.
The upgraded package will be distributed from April 2026 and will include wheat, 2 kg pulses, 2 kg sugar, 1 kg tea leaves, 1 litre mustard oil, and 200 grams turmeric for each eligible household. Officials said the items will be supplied quarterly to ensure steady access to essential commodities.
Mann said the new initiative reflects his government’s broader welfare agenda, which includes free electricity up to 300 units and free bus travel for women. “Our aim is simple — no family in Punjab should face hardship for basic needs. We have reduced household expenses and made sure public money serves the public,” he said.
Under the scheme, home delivery of ration is expected to begin early next year. The government has identified more than 30 flour mills to handle wheat grinding, ensuring timely supply and quality control.
The expanded welfare coverage will benefit 40 lakh families across Punjab. Officials noted that around 72,500 metric tonnes of ration will be distributed each month under the National Food Security Act.
The Mann government said the initiative reflects its commitment to “transparent governance and efficient public service,” adding that the package will reduce market dependence for basic kitchen supplies and bring convenience to households statewide.
