Punjab government announces ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme; Akali Dal terms it poll gimmick

Ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Punjab, due in early 2027, the Aam Aadmi Party government in the State on Monday (February 23, 2026) announced to provide wheat, sugar, oil and salt to families covered under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), even as the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) termed it another attempt to trick the people in the run up to the impending polls.

The decision was taken in the cabinet meeting held here, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Talking to media persons, he said under ‘Meri Rasoi Yojna’, 40 lakh families will receive free quarterly food kits starting April, in addition to wheat provided under the National Food Security Act.

“Under this scheme, the State government will provide food kits to 40 lakh families. Each kit will contain two kilograms of lentils, two kilograms of sugar, one kilogram of salt, 200 grams of turmeric powder and one litre of mustard oil for monthly consumption. These food kits will be provided in addition to the wheat already being distributed to eligible beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act,” he said.

Terming the announcement of the new scheme as a part of the AAP’s tricks, SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal said the people of Punjab understand the AAP’s tricks very well. “They are aware that this is also another false promise made in an election year, which will never be fulfilled, just like after 48 months, having Rs 1,000 in every woman’s account is still a dream!,” he said in a statement.