CHENNAI: With the Pongal festival just weeks away, the Tamil Nadu 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). Senior officials in the Food and Civil Supplies department said preparations are under way, even as public anticipation grows over the contents of this year’s gift pack.

As part of its customary festive outreach, the State government distributes essential commodities such as Pacharisi, sugar and sugarcane to ration card holders every year ahead of Pongal. This year, however, heightened interest surrounds the scheme, as Tamil Nadu heads into a crucial election year with the 2026 Assembly polls due.

According to official sources, the government is considering the inclusion of a cash assistance component of 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.

The Chief Minister is expected to formally launch the distribution of the Pongal gift packs in the first or second week of January. In line with previous years, the distribution of tokens, issued to ensure staggered and orderly collection at fair price shops, is likely to commence in the first week of January itself.

Officials added the final list of items and the exact rollout schedule would be announced shortly after cabinet-level approvals are completed.