No more Atta from ration shops, people will get high-quality wheat instead, announces minister Ashok Kirtania

The West Bengal government has discontinued the distribution of flour (atta) through the public distribution system (PDS) across the state. This move aims to eliminate widespread complaints regarding food adulteration and the illegal diversion of flour into the open market by local syndicates. For years, consumers have raised concerns about the poor quality and questionable packaging of rationed flour, often leading to friction between cardholders and dealers.

Food Minister Ashok Kirtania clarified that while new flour will no longer be procured, the existing stock in government warehouses will be distributed until exhausted. From June 2026, the focus will shift entirely to supplying high-quality wheat directly to the people. Consumers who previously received 2.85 kg to 3 kg of flour or wheat per capita will continue to receive their designated quota in the form of whole grain wheat at the same subsidised or free rates. 

The Minister issued a stern warning to ration dealers, stating that any attempt to distribute low-quality rice or wheat would lead to the immediate cancellation of their licenses. "We will not allow corruption in ration," Kirtania asserted, acknowledging that while there might be minor supply adjustments in May, the system will stabilise with premium quality food items by June.