Chennai: Chief Minister Stalin launched a scheme to distribute Pongal gift packages to 2.19 crore rice family card holders and Sri Lankan Tamil families in Tamil Nadu.
Chief Minister M.K.Stalin launched the program by distributing Pongal gift packages containing Rs.1,000 cash, one kg of sweet rice, sugar and whole sugarcane each to the residents of Annai Satya Nagar opposite Island on Kamarajar Road, Chennai. Similarly, the scheme of providing free dhoti and saree also starts today. A fund of Rs 2,430 crore has been earmarked for the distribution of Pongal gift packages.
Instructions to District Collectors: The work of token distribution across Tamil Nadu was completed yesterday. It was informed that District Collectors are responsible for proper distribution of Pongal gift package and cash to all rice family card holders and after the Chief Minister has launched the Pongal gift package, distribution should start in all ration shops and the gift package should be distributed before Pongal festival.
In this regard, guidelines have been issued that the 13th will be a working day for ration shops and the corresponding 27th will be a holiday. Also, officials were advised to ensure that the materials for the Pongal collection are of good quality.
Only two Rs.500 notes should be issued: * Pongal prize amount of Rs 1000 should not be exchanged. Only two 500 rupees notes should be issued. Money should not be given in envelopes. Hand it out for all to see.
* Pongal gift package should be distributed to all ration card holders before Pongal festival
*Priority should be given to the disabled, pregnant women and the elderly. A gift package can be given in return for sick, elderly and disabled people.
* Only cane of 6 feet or above 6 feet should be distributed. Canes shorter than 6 feet should be placed out of sight.
* Quality rice and sugar should be provided. Only the pacharisi sent for Pongal collection should be provided. Do not serve rice that is already old.
* Gift package can be given to those who come with alternate date token. Thus guidelines have been issued to ration shops regarding Pongal gift packages.