The Tamil Nadu government will begin issuing tokens for Pongal gift hampers five days before the festival, according to additional chief secretary J Radhakrishnan. These hampers are a traditional offering to family cardholders across the state, including free dhotis, sarees, and cash.
Last year’s gift hamper featured one kilogram of brown rice, one kilogram of sugar, whole sugarcane, and ₹1,000 in cash. With high public anticipation, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin is expected to make an announcement regarding this year’s gift soon.
Speaking to reporters, Radhakrishnan stated that efforts are underway to procure essential items like rice, sugar, and clothes for the hampers. The distribution will commence five days ahead of Pongal to ensure timely delivery to beneficiaries.