In a significant pre-Pongal initiative, the Coimbatore district administration has commenced the large-scale distribution of festive gift packages to ration cardholders across the region. The program was officially inaugurated on Thursday by District Collector Pavankumar G Giriyappanavar and Member of Parliament Ganapathy P Rajkumar.
Massive Scale of Distribution and Inauguration
The administration is undertaking the mammoth task of delivering Pongal gifts to a total of 11,22,290 ration cardholders. This extensive beneficiary list also includes 1,802 cardholders residing in Sri Lankan refugee camps within the district. The inauguration ceremony marked the beginning of the distribution process through the network of fair price shops.
Financial Outlay and Package Details
The total value of this welfare initiative stands at a staggering ₹336.68 crore. As announced earlier by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, each gift package this year contains a direct cash component of ₹3,000. The distribution is being managed efficiently through 1,540 fair price shops spread across Coimbatore district to ensure wide and easy access for all eligible families.
Officials have set a firm deadline for the completion of this drive. "The gift distribution will be completed by January 14," confirmed an official involved in the process. This timeline ensures all beneficiaries receive their packages well before the Pongal festivities begin.
Beneficiaries Express Gratitude and Relief
The distribution has brought cheer and financial relief to numerous households. R Saraswathi, a 49-year-old resident of Muthumariyamman Kovil Street, was among those who eagerly collected her package from a public distribution store. She shared that the cash gift would be instrumental in addressing additional household needs and purchasing medicines for her elderly parents.
Another beneficiary, S Kanimozhi, 40, from Cowley Brown Road, expressed her happiness at receiving the assistance. She highlighted that the Pongal season invariably brings extra expenses, and the government's cash gift provides crucial support in managing those additional costs effectively.
This annual Pongal gift scheme continues to be a vital support system for lakhs of families in Coimbatore, aiding them in celebrating the harvest festival with greater joy and financial security.
