Chennai: A Rs 3,280 crore special relief package was announced by Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami today to help people whose livelihood has taken a hit due to the curbs put in place for battling the coronavirus.
Under the assistance plan, people having ‘rice’ ration cards will get Rs 1,000 each cash assistance, and all card holders shall get essential commodities -rice, dhal, cooking oil and sugar- free of cost.
Making the announcement in the Assembly under Rule 110, he said token system will be followed to avoid crowding in the fair price shops. He further said those who missed purchasing ration items in the month of March, could get them in April also.
Auto drivers and construction workers will get a special assistance of Rs 1,000, he told the Assembly ahead of the State-wide lockdown coming into force from 6 pm today. Families of migrant labourers will get 15 kgs rice, one kilo each dhal and cooking oil for free.
Destitute people and elderly will get cooked food at their residence, he said. Stating that quality food would be supplied continuously at Amma subsidised canteens, he also announced setting up of kitchens to provide food for destitutes across the State and necessary instructions were given to the district Collectors in this regard.
He also announced that doctors, nurses and conservancy workers who are involved in fighting against the coronavirus will get their one month salary as special pay.
Palaniswami requested people not to take the coronovirus lightly. ”We are not ready to lose even a single life due to coronavirus. We will continue to work till this disease is completed eliminated from the State,” he said.
New district announced
Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami today announced that Mayiladudhurai will be formed as the 38th district of the State by carving it from Nagapattinam district.