In a circular that has been sent to all the zonal registrars on behalf of the Co-operative Department, it is mandatory for all the PDS workers to undergo COVID testing.

“During the initial days of corona in March, ration shop staff were provided masks, but later no masks and sanitisers were provided. When the Rs 1,000 relief for cardholders were given, we worked with zero safety measures as public ignored social distancing and the police were not able to regulate the crowd,” recalled a ration shop supervisor.

The order stated, that all employees who are working in fair price shops in the restricted zones will have to undergo testing as a mandate, while the employees of the shops in non-containment zones will be made to undergo the test if any of their respective shop employees test positive.

The circular advised that all fair price shops ensure adequate mask and gloves for the workers. The Government of Tamil Nadu has directed the Zonal Registrars to implement this order immediately.