West Bengal announces subsidized ration package for Durga Puja

The West Bengal government has announced a special festival ration package for Durga Puja to provide relief to approximately 2.12 crore ration card-holding families, benefiting an estimated 8 crore people. Under this scheme, eligible families will receive essential items at a 50 percent subsidy.

During a press conference at Nabanna, Chief Minister Subhendu Adhikari detailed that the package includes 1 kg of flour at ₹19, 1 kg of sugar at ₹30, and 500 grams of semolina (suji). While the tender process for flour and sugar is complete, the tender for semolina is currently underway. The state has allocated an additional budget of ₹150 crore to the Food Department to implement this initiative.

The government initially considered providing these items for free, but opted for a 50 percent subsidy instead due to the state's current financial situation. Food Minister Ashok Kirtania noted that if the state's economic condition improves, the government may consider providing these items for free during future festivals.