The Tamil Nadu government has announced a significant allocation of ₹100 crore for the distribution of free veshtis (dhotis) and sarees as part of its annual Pongal festival celebrations in 2025. This move is aimed at supporting traditional handloom weavers and ensuring that the cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu is upheld during the state’s most celebrated festival.
On August 27, Dharmendra Pratap Yadav, Principal Secretary of the State Handloom Department, issued official orders to kickstart the production of these garments. The orders specifically directed powerloom weavers and cooperative societies to begin manufacturing the required sarees and veshtis, with strict timelines to ensure they are ready for distribution by the Pongal festival in January 2025.
As part of this initiative, Co-optex, the State-owned handloom cooperative, has been tasked with procuring veshtis and sarees produced by handloom and pedalloom manufacturers throughout the year. These garments will not only be distributed during Pongal but will also benefit recipients of the Old Age Pension scheme.
The order also outlined a production target based on the scheme’s requirements from the previous year. For 2025, the tentative target has been set at 1.77 crore sarees and 1.77 crore veshtis. However, this figure is subject to revision based on district-wise requirements, which will be determined by the Commissioner of Revenue Administration after a joint review with various officials, including the Project Director of Social Security and the Managing Director of the Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Corporation.
As per the Government Order (GO), the free veshtis and sarees will be distributed to eligible ration card holders. To streamline the distribution process and prevent fraud, beneficiaries will be required to verify and register their biometric data at fair price shops.
This initiative not only ensures that the cultural practices associated with Pongal are preserved but also provides significant support to the state’s handloom sector. By involving powerloom weavers and cooperative societies, the Tamil Nadu government aims to boost the livelihood of local artisans and promote the use of traditional garments.
The Tamil Nadu government’s proactive approach in planning and allocating resources well in advance of the 2025 Pongal festival highlights its commitment to preserving cultural traditions and supporting the state’s weavers. With the distribution of free veshtis and sarees, the government continues to uphold the spirit of Pongal while providing tangible benefits to its citizens.