Major Decision by Punjab Government: 10 Lakh New Ration Cards to be Issued; Poor Families to Benefit

August 6, 2026

The Punjab government has taken a significant step to further strengthen the state’s food security system. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has announced that 10 lakh (1 million) new ration cards will be issued across the state. The government asserts that this drive will be executed through a completely transparent and technology-driven system to ensure that the benefits of the schemes reach the families who are genuinely in need.

7 Lakh New Families and 3 Lakh Workers to be Included

According to Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, 7 lakh new eligible families will be brought under the ambit of the National Food Security Act as part of this new ration card drive. Additionally, approximately 3 lakh e-Shram registered workers and migrant laborers will be linked to the food security scheme.

Under this initiative, new beneficiaries will receive 5 kilograms of wheat along with a ‘Meri Rasoi Paushtik Kit’ (My Kitchen Nutritious Kit), thereby boosting the nutritional security of these families.

Application Process Began on July 22

The process for obtaining new ration cards and adding the names of new family members commenced on July 22. The government has provided multiple options to simplify the application process.

People can apply via online channels, Sewa Kendras (service centers), Common Service Centers, and District Food Offices. Once the application is submitted, applicants will receive an acknowledgment via SMS and will be able to track their application status online.

Entire Process Based on a ‘No Cash

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that there would be no role for recommendations, bribes, or middlemen in the ration card issuance process. He emphasized that all applications would be evaluated through a uniform digital system.

According to the Punjab government, a points-based evaluation system will be adopted to determine eligibility, ensuring priority is given to families in need.

Digital Verification to Enhance Transparency

The Punjab government claims that the new system incorporates digital verification, online tracking, and data-driven scrutiny. Each application will undergo a door-to-door verification process, involving geo-tagged and time-stamped inspections alongside cross-verification with government databases. A digital record of the approval or rejection of every application will also be maintained to ensure the entire process remains accountable and transparent.

Millions of families linked to the ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that over 3.2 million families are already benefiting from the ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme. The scope of food and nutritional security will expand further following the new ration card drive.

The Punjab government states that the objective of this initiative is to ensure that no eligible family is deprived of government assistance and that they can access their entitlements without any hassle.