CHENNAI: The introduction of biometric authentication in Adi Dravidar Welfare hostels across Tamil Nadu has helped prevent fund misappropriation meant for students’ food expenses, saving nearly Rs 40 crore in a year and tightening oversight of hostel operations, according to department officials.

The Adi Dravidar Welfare Department runs 1,138 schools, of which 1,034 have attached hostels accommodating students. Around 1,400 wardens are employed in these facilities. Additionally, 295 college hostels with 820 wardens are functioning under the department.

School students are provided Rs 1,100 per month for food, while college students receive Rs 1,400. The amount is released to wardens based on the number of students residing in hostels. However, officials said wardens were allegedly diverting a portion of the funds, resulting in poor-quality food for students.

To tackle this, the department implemented a biometric attendance system last year. Every student must register biometrically, and food is prepared only for those present on a given day. Officials said this has ensured that funds are utilised for students and has stopped inflated claims.

The government spends about Rs 100 crore annually on food in Adi Dravidar Welfare hostels. Nearly Rs 40 crore has been saved since the biometric system was introduced, and the amount is expected to rise this year.

At the same time, more than 100 hostels have already been closed due to falling student numbers. Complaints have continued that hostels in areas with low enrolment were shut, and food supply stopped.

A senior department official told DT Next that enrolment had reduced in districts such as Cuddalore. The official clarified that hostels would not be closed as long as students are registered biometrically and receive food, even if they do not stay in the hostel.

Department sources alleged that wardens posted in the same hostels for 10 to 20 years were involved in long-standing irregularities, and some had built assets beyond their known income. Action is being planned after reviewing these details.

Officials added that only school hostels have seen a decline in numbers, while college hostels continue to record high enrolment. The department plans to establish more college hostels.

Former IAS officer Christudoss Gandhi told DT Next that irregularities have persisted for many years, and wardens alone should not be blamed. The government must reassess the role of Adi Dravidar Welfare hostels, he said, and decide how these facilities should function when student numbers fall.