Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that the scheme will cover more than two crore families across the state and is expected to benefit over eight crore people during the Puja period. The government has allocated ₹150 crore through the Food and Supplies Department for the initiative.
Under the package, each eligible family will receive:
- 1 kg flour at ₹19
- 1 kg sugar at ₹30
- 500 grams of semolina (suji)
The subsidised commodities will be distributed through the state's rationing system during the Durga Puja week, with this year's celebrations scheduled from October 17 to 21.
According to the government, the state will bear the remaining half of the cost of these food items. The tender process for flour and sugar has already been completed, while the procurement process for semolina was still underway at the time of the announcement.
The package is not restricted to any particular community. Food Minister Ashok Kirtania said the benefit would be available to eligible ration-card-holding families across the state.
The government had reportedly considered providing the items free of cost but opted for a 50 per cent subsidy this year, citing the state's financial position. The Food Minister also indicated that free distribution during festivals could be considered in future if the state's finances permit.
The announcement comes as West Bengal prepares for one of its biggest annual festivals, with the subsidised ration package aimed at reducing the financial burden on families during the festive season.
