The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana was launched in the state by Punjab Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Minister Mr Bharat Bhushan Ashu during a function held at Jawaddi area of the city today. Under this scheme, wheat and pulses would be provided to all beneficiaries of the smart card scheme totally free of cost.While speaking to media persons on the occasion, Mr Bharat Bhushan Ashu said that under this scheme, there would be free distribution of 5 kg wheat per person and one kg of pulses per household under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana for next three months. He informed that even the Capt Amarinder Singh led Punjab government has already distributed more than 10 lakh food packets to people from weaker sections of the society.He informed that the Punjab government is committed to ensure that no person, especially any poor family, suffers on account of non-availability of foodgrains due to lockdown. He informed that more than 1.41 crore beneficiaries would be covered under this scheme in Punjab.Mr Bharat Bhushan Ashu also appreciated the role of NGOs, social/industrial/religious organisations for providing food and ration to the needy persons across the state. He said that the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana would also prove beneficial for the needy persons in Punjab.Mrs Anindita Mitra, Director, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department, Punjab, was also present on the occasion.