Tamil Nadu to Distribute Quality Dhotis and Sarees for Pongal 2027 to Ration Cardholders

The Tamil Nadu government has begun preparations for the Pongal 2027 welfare package by approving ₹300 crore for the initial procurement of dhotis and sarees, as per a PTI news report.  

The Directorate of Handlooms and Textiles will oversee the purchase of raw materials and production. According to the government order, the scheme has a total estimated outlay of ₹642.88 crore. 

Over 2.23 Crore Beneficiaries to Receive Garments 

The free garments will be distributed to nearly 2.23 crore eligible beneficiaries through the Public Distribution System (PDS). The scheme covers rice-category ration cardholders as well as beneficiaries of social welfare programmes, including old-age pensioners.  

In total, more than 2.27 crore dhotis and sarees are planned for production before the Pongal festival. 

Changes Planned in Fabric and Design 

This year's garments will differ from those distributed earlier. Officials said the sarees will be woven using polycot yarn with a higher polyester content, replacing the previous blend.  

The existing blue-and-white sarees will continue to be distributed, but the government has decided to introduce additional colour options. Blue, pink, ivory-white, green and a few other shades will be included in the new batch.  

No changes have been announced to the eligibility criteria or the distribution process. 

Annual Pongal Assistance 

The free dhoti and saree distribution is one part of Tamil Nadu's annual Pongal assistance programme. Eligible households also receive rice, sugarcane, jaggery, cashew nuts, and cash assistance before the harvest festival.  

The distribution is carried out through fair price shops across the state every year. 

Manufacturing to Begin in Advance 

News reports citing officials said procurement has been initiated early to avoid delays in manufacturing and supply. The advance schedule is to support production across the textile sector.  

Government estimates show that the programme could provide work to around 5 lakh textile workers, while handloom weavers may receive nearly six months of employment linked to the scheme. 

Read More: Government Extends Customs Duty Relief on Goods Used in Lithium-Ion Cell Manufacturing Until March 2029! 

Conclusion 

The Tamil Nadu government has approved changes to the free dhotis and sarees distributed under the Pongal 2027 welfare scheme. Procurement has begun, with distribution planned for over 2.23 crore eligible beneficiaries. 

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