Chennai, Jan 21 (NationPress) Numerous ration card holders throughout Tamil Nadu experienced disappointment this Pongal, as they did not receive the customary free dhotis and sarees typically provided by the State government alongside the festive Pongal gift package.

Although recipients received cash assistance and essential goods, the lack of clothing items led to confusion and frustration at ration shops in several districts.

Supervisors at fair price outlets reported that most shops received less than 60 percent of the necessary stock for dhotis and sarees compared to the total eligible cardholders.

Due to this shortfall, some beneficiaries only received either a dhoti or a saree, while others were left without any clothing, as per the officials.

Suresh Kumar, a ration card holder from Ramanathapuram, expressed his disappointment, stating that although he qualified for the benefit, he did not receive the clothing items.

"I received the Rs 3,000 cash assistance, rice, sugar, and sugarcane. When I inquired about the dhoti and saree, the shop staff informed me that the allotment was inadequate and advised me to wait for further supplies," he recounted.

A supervisor at a ration shop, wishing to remain anonymous, described the situation as challenging.

"In our shop, over 550 cardholders were eligible, but we only received approximately 300 sets. We were verbally instructed to distribute whatever was available without causing tension. Initially, we provided both items to some, and later only one item to others who were willing to accept it," the supervisor explained.

Ration shop employee unions highlighted that this issue has been recurring.

Selvaraj, a senior office-bearer of a ration shop employees' association, asserted that the short supply during Pongal distribution has become standard.

"Every year, the allotment falls significantly short of demand. Shop staff are left to soothe beneficiaries and assure them of additional supply, though such supplies seldom materialize," he stated.

Lakshmi Devi, a resident of Madurai's Arapalayam area, lamented that she did not receive a saree, dhoti, or even sugarcane.

"I got the cash and essentials, but the rice quality was subpar. Most people in our area were denied clothing items, with only a few men receiving dhotis," she noted.

Senior department officials acknowledged the shortage, explaining that distribution was based on existing stock.

While some districts received additional supplies after submitting new indents, officials admitted that further allotment is unlikely now that the Pongal distribution has ended.

This situation has sparked concerns regarding the planning and procurement for one of the state's most prominent welfare initiatives, with beneficiaries urging the government to ensure comprehensive coverage in future festivals.