To bolster the welfare of depot holders and improve food distribution systems, the Punjab Government on Friday announced to increase the commission for ration depot holders from Rs 50 to Rs 90 per quintal. The decision, announced after an eight-year gap, will benefit 14,400 depot holders across the state, ensuring better income stability for those supporting the Public Distribution System (PDS). The increased commission will be implemented starting April 2024, with the State Government already allocating Rs 38 crore for the purpose.
Punjab Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak, addressing a press conference in Chandigarh, highlighted the financial benefits of the hike. He explained that a depot holder managing 200 ration cards, typically catering to 800 beneficiaries, would see an annual increase in earnings from Rs 24,200 to Rs 43,200. The initiative is expected to address long-standing demands by depot holders, who have been advocating for fair remuneration for years.
The Minister clarified that this decision was greenlit by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, emphasizing the government's commitment to ensuring the economic welfare of those serving in the food security sector.
Adding to this major announcement, the Government also plans to open 9,792 new ration depots across Punjab. Applications for these depots are being accepted online until December 5, 2024. Of the proposed depots, 8,040 will be in rural areas and 1,742 in urban regions, aimed at strengthening the reach and efficiency of the Public Distribution System. The government aims to enhance food accessibility for citizens while creating new opportunities for depot holders.
The Minister also noted that the annual commission allocated for depot holders has increased to Rs 78.4 crore. Of this, Rs 17.4 crore will be funded directly by the State Government, highlighting its commitment to improving public welfare through robust financial support.
Addressing concerns about Rural Development Fund (RDF) allocations, Kataruchak mentioned ongoing discussions with the Central Government. He, along with Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, recently met the Union Minister Pralhad Joshi to address discrepancies in RDF payments. The Punjab Government remains firm in its stance against cuts in the fund, which is vital for rural development projects.
