Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Stalin Launches Rs 3,000 Pongal Cash Aid, Hamper Distribution Across Tamil Nadu

Token-based slots at ration shops manage crowds, with cash counted openly before beneficiaries.

Overview

  • M.K. Stalin inaugurated the scheme at a fair price shop in Alandur, Chennai, triggering statewide pickup as per allotted time slots.
  • The programme covers over 2.22 crore rice-category ration card households, including eligible Sri Lankan Tamil families.
  • Each beneficiary family receives Rs 3,000 in cash plus a hamper with 1 kg raw rice, 1 kg sugar and one sugarcane.
  • Officials report full dispatch of rice and sugar to shops, while 50–80% of sugarcane has arrived and the remainder will be supplied through district administrations.
  • Authorities have deployed police at busy outlets, required open cash counting by shop staff, extended 6 a.m. openings in hill areas and advised those without tokens to contact their ration shops.