Big Update for Punjab Ration Card Holders: Major Changes Coming Next Week!

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): To bring more transparency and speed to departmental work, Punjab Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak held a review meeting on Thursday at Anaj Bhawan, the department's head office. The meeting was attended by all Deputy Directors (Field), District Controllers and other officers.

As per the Minister's instructions, the wheat meant for distribution in the January-March 2025 quarter should reach all ration depots by next week and be given to ration card holders. He directed field officers to ensure timely attendance at their offices and dedicate time daily to address public concerns. He also instructed them to resolve public issues on priority.

All Deputy Directors and District Controllers were asked to inspect ration depots in their districts and personally monitor the wheat distribution. Reports and videos of these inspections must be sent to the head office.

The Minister emphasized that the wheat distribution must be completed by February 28. He stressed the importance of ensuring the correct weight and quality of wheat. Beneficiaries should receive the exact quantity they are entitled to, in good condition. To ensure accuracy, weighing scales will be integrated with e-POS machines at ration depots. The wheat should only be sent to ration depots after proper weighing verification.

He also directed officers to complete all necessary preparations for the wheat procurement season starting in April 2025. No farmer should face difficulties during procurement, and arrangements must be made for timely lifting and safe storage of wheat from markets.

Principal Secretary Vikas Garg and Director Puneet Goyal also attended the meeting. They urged officers to work with dedication and honesty to achieve the government's targets. The Principal Secretary reviewed district-wise wheat distribution and instructed officers in areas with low distribution rates to speed up the process.