In a major welfare initiative, the Punjab Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has approved and launched the Meri Rasoi (My Kitchen) scheme. The program is designed to tackle malnutrition and provide nutritional support to economically weaker families across the state.
The scheme is expected to benefit nearly 40 lakh families, particularly blue card holders. Under this initiative, eligible beneficiaries will receive quarterly food kits along with their regular wheat supply through the Public Distribution System (PDS).
If you want to check the complete food kit items list, eligibility details, and distribution updates under the Meri Rasoi Scheme 2026, read this article till the end. Below, you will find everything you need to know about the scheme’s benefits and kit contents.
What is Meri Rasoi Scheme 2026
| Name of Scheme | Meri Rasoi (My Kitchen) Scheme |
| State | Punjab |
| Launch Date | 23 February 2026 |
| Launched by | CM Bhagwant Mann |
| Objective | To combat malnutrition and support economically weaker sections |
| Eligible Beneficiaries | Families registered under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), commonly known as Blue Card Holders |
| Number of Beneficiaries | 40 lakh families residing across the state |
| Benefit | Food Kits to beneficiaries in addition to their regular wheat quota |
| Items in Each Food Kit | 2 kg of Urad and Chana Dal, 2 kg of sugar, 1 kg of iodized salt, 200 grams of turmeric powder, and one litre of mustard oil |
| Distribution Timeline | Every 3 months |
| Distribution Start Date (1st Phase) | April 2026 for the quarter of April, May, and June |
Why the Meri Rasoi Scheme Was Introduced
The scheme was conceptualized after health inspections in schools revealed concerns about malnutrition among children. These findings prompted the state government to take proactive measures to ensure that families have access to balanced and nutritious food.
By supplementing staple wheat with protein-rich pulses and other essential ingredients, the government aims to improve overall dietary standards, especially among children from low-income households.What Does the Meri Rasoi Food Kit Include?
Under the scheme, food kits will be distributed every three months through the Public Distribution System (PDS). Each kit will contain:
- 2 kg Urad Dal
- 2 kg Chana Dal
- 2 kg Sugar
- 1 kg Iodized Salt
- 200 grams Turmeric Powder
- 1 litre Mustard Oil
Where to Get Kit - Public Distribution System (PDS)
Ensuring Quality and Proper Implementation
The scheme will be implemented through Punjab State Cooperative Supply and Marketing Federation Limited (Markfed) in coordination with the state's Food and Supply Department. This will ensure smooth distribution and transparency.Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann emphasized that quality will be a top priority in the execution of the scheme. He assured citizens that the mustard oil provided in the kits would meet premium standards similar to what families use in their own kitchens.
Punjab's Legacy and Commitment to Welfare
Punjab has long been recognized as the breadbasket of India, playing a pivotal role in the Green Revolution and contributing significantly to the nation's food security. Building on this legacy, the Meri Rasoi scheme reflects the government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for its citizens.
The initiative complements existing welfare measures such as free electricity, water supply, and education support programs. However, this scheme specifically focuses on strengthening nutritional security for the next generation.
The initiative complements existing welfare measures such as free electricity, water supply, and education support programs. However, this scheme specifically focuses on strengthening nutritional security for the next generation.
Impact on Families and Children (Expected)
- Nutritional support for 40 lakh families
- Better health outcomes for children
- Reduced financial burden on poor households
- Improved overall dietary diversity
Funding
It is learnt that the state government has allocated around ₹950 crore to ₹1,000 crore for this scheme as there are 40 lakh needy families registered as blue card holders under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) or Smart Ration Card Scheme.Official Updates & External Links
The scheme has been widely reported in news outlets as launched by the Punjab government. However, detailed official pages on the state portal may take some time to go live after the announcement.For updates, beneficiaries can:
- Check the Official Punjab Government website
- Visit their local PDS ration depot
- Contact the Food and Civil Supplies Department

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