CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government has earmarked Rs 248.44 crore for procuring raw rice, sugar and full-sized sugarcane to be distributed as part of the Pongal gift hampers to 2.22 crore rice ration card holders.

In an order issued on Wednesday, the Food and Cooperation Department said raw rice and sugar are being sourced at a total cost of Rs 164 crore, with rice priced at Rs 25 per kg and sugar at Rs 48.54 per kg. Sugarcane procurement has been sanctioned at Rs 84.70 crore, with each piece priced at Rs 38.

While food items have been finalised, rice ration card holders are awaiting clarity on the cash component traditionally included in the Pongal package.

Officials said the Chief Minister’s Office and the Finance Department are holding discussions to finalise the amount to be disbursed.