Several ration card holders in Tamil Nadu were left disappointed during Pongal as they did not receive the free dhotis and sarees usually distributed by the State government along with the festive gift hamper. While beneficiaries got cash assistance and essential items, the shortage of clothing items led to confusion and resentment at ration shops in various districts.
Supervisors at fair price shops mentioned that most outlets received less than 60% of the required dhoti and saree stock for eligible cardholders. Due to the limited supply, some beneficiaries were given either a dhoti or a saree, while others received none, according to officials.
Suresh Kumar, a ration card holder from Ramanathapuram, expressed his disappointment at not receiving the clothing items despite being eligible for them. He received the cash assistance, rice, sugar, and sugarcane but was informed that the allotment for dhoti and saree was insufficient.
A ration shop supervisor, speaking anonymously, highlighted the challenges faced due to the shortage. At their shop, out of over 550 eligible cardholders, they received only about 300 sets and were instructed to distribute whatever was available without causing tension among beneficiaries.
Ration shop employee unions pointed out that the issue of short supply during Pongal distribution was a recurring problem. Selvaraj, a senior office-bearer of a ration shop employees’ association, noted that every year, the allotment fell short of demand, leaving staff to manage disappointed beneficiaries.
Lakshmi Devi, a resident of Madurai’s Arapalayam area, shared her experience of not receiving any clothing items or sugarcane during the distribution. While she received cash and essentials, the quality of rice was poor, and most people in her area were denied clothing items, with only a few men receiving dhotis.
Senior department officials acknowledged the shortage and explained that distribution was based on the available stock. Although some districts received additional supplies upon request, further allotment was unlikely after the conclusion of the Pongal distribution process.
The shortage of clothing items has raised concerns about planning and procurement for one of the State’s prominent welfare initiatives. Beneficiaries are calling on the government to ensure full coverage in future festivals to avoid such disappointments.
