With the 2026 Pongal festival nearing, Tamil Nadu Food and Civil Supplies Minister R. Sakkarapani on Tuesday chaired a high-level review meeting to assess preparations for distributing Pongal gift hampers, the progress of samba paddy procurement, and the implementation of key departmental announcements.Officials said discussions were held on finalising the contents of the Pongal gift hamper for ration cardholders. The State has around 2.26 crore ration cards, including nearly 1.10 crore rice cards. The meeting also explored the possibility of including a cash component in the festive package, sources indicated.
The Minister reviewed district-wise readiness for samba paddy procurement and instructed officials to ensure timely purchase from farmers, smooth functioning of procurement centres, and prompt payment without inconvenience.
The status of various Food and Consumer Protection department schemes was also evaluated to ensure effective on-ground implementation. Officials were directed to maintain uninterrupted supply through the public distribution system and ensure beneficiaries face no hardship.
Further announcements on the Pongal gift package will be made once consultations and administrative procedures are completed, officials said.
Senior officials including department secretary Sathyabrata Sahoo, Commissioner Nandakumar, and other top officers took part in the meeting.