Chief Minister M. K. Stalin will formally launch the distribution of the Pongal gift package for 2026 at a fair price shop in Alandur, Chennai, on January 8, officials announced. The initiative marks the start of the state’s annual festive support to rice ration card holders ahead of the Pongal festival.
Under the programme, more than 2.22 crore rice ration card holders and eligible families, including those in Sri Lankan Tamil rehabilitation camps, will receive a traditional Pongal gift set consisting of one kilogram each of raw rice and sugar, and a full sugarcane. In addition, the government has announced a Rs 3,000 cash gift for each beneficiary this year as part of the scheme.
Arrangements have been made to begin distributing tokens to beneficiaries, enabling smooth collection of the gift packages at ration shops. The distribution is scheduled to take place on January 9, 10 and 11, with CM Stalin overseeing the inauguration to ensure the benefits reach eligible households before the festival.