CHENNAI: After skipping the Rs 1,000 cash component in Pongal gift hampers in 2025 citing financial constraints, the State government is not only considering bringing it back, but even hiking the amount substantially, to as much as Rs 3,000 if officials are to be believed. The festival falls in January, quickly followed by a crucial Assembly election.

With the festival just weeks away, the government is gearing up to roll out its annual Pongal gift scheme, with indications that distribution will begin in the first week of January through the Public Distribution System (PDS).

Every year, the State government distributes essential commodities such as raw rice, sugar, and sugarcane to ration card holders every year ahead of Pongal. It also used to give Rs 1,000 per card, which, however, was not done in 2025 due to severe financial crunch.

This year, however, there is heightened anticipation about the scheme, as Tamil Nadu is heading into a crucial election year. According to official sources, the government is considering hiking the cash assistance component to Rs 3,000 along with the traditional Pongal gift pack for eligible ration card holders.

While a formal announcement is awaited, sources indicated that the proposal is under active consideration at the highest levels.

Chief Minister MK Stalin is expected to formally launch the distribution of the Pongal gift packs in the first or second week of January. Officials added the final list of items, and the exact rollout schedule will be announced shortly after cabinet-level approvals are completed.