Chennai, 04 January (H.S.) : Chief Minister and DMK president MK Stalin on Sunday announced a Pongal festival cash assistance of three thousand rupees for all rice ration card holding families across the state.

This significant welfare measure also extends to families residing in Sri Lankan Tamil rehabilitation camps, ensuring an inclusive celebration of the traditional harvest festival. The decision aims to support households in meeting festival related expenses and marks a substantial increase in financial aid compared to previous years.

According to an official state government release, the cash gift will be distributed through fair price shops ahead of the festival. This financial assistance will be provided alongside the customary Pongal gift hamper, which includes one kilogram of raw rice, one kilogram of sugar, and one full length sugarcane. Furthermore, the government has already dispatched dhotis and sarees to all districts for distribution to eligible beneficiaries. The Chief Minister has issued specific directives to government officials to ensure that all logistical arrangements are finalized promptly so that the assistance reaches families without any delay.

Government authorities estimate that approximately 2,22,01,710 rice ration card holding families and those in rehabilitation camps will benefit from this initiative. Officials stated that this move is part of the state's broader commitment to social welfare and inclusive development, particularly during a time of rising living costs.

The announcement has been welcomed as a gesture of gratitude toward the farming community and the general public. Additionally, the government emphasized that all updates regarding the distribution schedule will be communicated through the respective district administrations to ensure a smooth and transparent process for all citizens.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary