Reflecting the continued commitment of the Punjab Government to reduce household expenditure and supporting economically weaker sections, A budgetary provision of Rs. 900 crore has been earmarked in Financial Year 2026–27 for the effective implementation of MERI RASOI scheme. The announcement, made by the Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema here today in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha while presenting the budget for 2026-27, was heartily welcomed by the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak.
Expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and the Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, Mr. Kataruchak said that the flagship scheme would go a long way in strengthening the food and nutrition security for vulnerable households across the State. Under this initiative, quarterly ration kits containing essential items such as 2 kg sugar, 2 kg chana dal, 1 litre mustard oil, 200 gm turmeric and 1 kg salt will be provided free of cost to nearly 40 lakh families covered under the NFSA/Smart Ration Card scheme, in addition to their existing food grain entitlement.
Further, in fulfillment of a long standing demand among the people, the doors of food security would be opened to include 10 lakh new beneficiaries in the coming year, Along with ensuring food security for every family in Punjab, it was also announced that in order to ensure employment opportunities to the people, the State Government has started the process of allotment of Fair Price Shops (FPS) in the State against the available vacancies.
Upon the completion of this exercise in the next 1-2 months, the State will issue licenses to operate Fair Price Shops/Ration Depots in the State which will also lead to faster distribution of wheat to beneficiaries registered under Smart Card Ration Scheme in the State. In respect of Forest Department, under 'Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Haryaval Sankalp' initiative in all districts of the State, over 1.11 crore saplings have been planted so far.
Under the Green Punjab Mission, Nanak Bagichis, Pavittar Vans and Environment Parks are being developed to expand urban and community green spaces. During the Financial Year 2026–27, plantation over 4,150 hectares is proposed under PUNCAMPA scheme, along with afforestation and wildlife protection initiatives under approved schemes, with an allocation of Rs. 238 crore.
Additionally, the State is undertaking a Rs. 760 crore Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-supported project, to be implemented over the next eight years, aimed at promoting Trees Outside Forests, biodiversity conservation and climate resilience through community participation, thereby strengthening Punjab’s long-term environmental sustainability.