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Free Ration Kits Announced as Punjab Heads Toward Crucial 2027 Assembly Elections

The decision was taken at a meeting of the Punjab Council of Ministers held in Chandigarh on Monday, where the government approved the launch of the ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme — a move widely seen as part of the ruling party’s strategy to strengthen its social support base ahead of the polls.

Under the scheme, each eligible family will receive 2 kg of dal, 2 kg of sugar, 1 kg of iodised salt, 200 grams of turmeric, and 1 litre of mustard oil every month, in addition to the free wheat already provided under the public distribution system. The ration kits will initially be distributed for three months beginning in April.

Sources indicated that the state government has earmarked approximately ₹1,000 crore for the scheme, with MARKFED tasked with preparing the kits and the Food and Civil Supplies Department overseeing their distribution.

Welfare Push Gains Political Significance Amid Election Preparations

The rollout of free ration kits assumes political significance as Punjab prepares for Assembly elections early next year. The move comes alongside a series of welfare initiatives by the AAP government, including plans to provide a monthly honorarium of ₹ 1,000 to women, aimed at consolidating key voter segments.

Opposition parties have already begun criticising such schemes as “freebies” intended to influence voters. In contrast, the ruling party maintains that these measures are essential social welfare interventions designed to ensure food security and dignity for economically weaker families.

Chief Minister Mann defended the scheme, stating that despite Punjab’s role as the country’s food bowl, many families within the state still struggle with malnutrition and inadequate nutrition.

“Ironically, Punjab feeds the entire country, yet many families here cannot afford nutritious meals. Our children suffer from iron deficiency and lack adequate protein. As a welfare government, it is our responsibility to ensure every citizen gets wholesome food,” Mann said.

Budget on Women’s Day, Govt Signals Continued Welfare Focus

The Chief Minister also announced that the Budget session of the Punjab Assembly will be held from March 6 to March 16, with the Budget scheduled to be presented on March 8 — International Women’s Day. The timing of the Budget is expected to reinforce the government’s welfare-driven agenda, particularly targeting women and economically weaker sections.

Mann also assured full cooperation with the Election Commission during the special revision of electoral rolls, but cautioned against any arbitrary deletion of voters.

With the rollout of free ration kits, the proposed honorarium scheme for women, and expanded welfare spending, the AAP government appears to be positioning itself strongly ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, combining social welfare delivery with strategic political messaging.