Tamil Nadu Food and Civil Supplies Minister P. Venkataramanan on Saturday, 30 May called for a tobacco-free Tamil Nadu, urging sustained public awareness campaigns and stronger community participation in de-addiction efforts. Speaking after inaugurating a tobacco awareness rally at Marina Beach, Chennai, to mark World No Tobacco Day, the Minister said eliminating tobacco use was a collective societal responsibility.

Minister's Call for a Tobacco-Free Tamil Nadu

'Tamil Nadu must become a tobacco-free state. The harmful effects of tobacco have been known for decades. It is our collective responsibility to work towards eliminating tobacco use and creating a healthier society,' Venkataramanan said.

The Minister acknowledged that tobacco addiction continues to affect a significant portion of the state's population, causing serious health consequences and social challenges. He stressed that while rehabilitation and de-addiction programmes are being carried out across Tamil Nadu, awareness remains the most effective preventive tool — particularly for the younger generation.

'Many people continue to suffer because of tobacco dependence. Though rehabilitation and de-addiction initiatives are being carried out across the state, creating awareness is equally important. Only through continuous public education can we build a stronger, healthier, and more productive society,' he added.

Public Vigilance on Ration Shops Urged

Separately, Venkataramanan called on citizens to report irregularities at ration shops directly to the Food and Civil Supplies Department, assuring swift and stringent action against hoarding or diversion of commodities under the Public Distribution System (PDS).

'If anyone has complaints regarding ration shops, they can approach us and submit their grievances. The department will investigate every complaint. If ration rice or any other PDS commodities are found to be hoarded, diverted or misused, immediate and stringent action will be taken against those responsible,' he warned.

Government's Commitment to Welfare Delivery

The Minister also highlighted the state government's focus on resolving long-pending public grievances and ensuring welfare schemes reach beneficiaries without delay. He said the administration was systematically addressing concerns raised by citizens over the years.

This comes amid broader efforts by the Tamil Nadu government to improve transparency in essential services delivery. The dual emphasis on public health and PDS accountability at a single public address reflects the administration's attempt to reinforce its welfare credentials ahead of what analysts describe as a heightened period of public scrutiny.

What Was Not Said

When reporters asked about Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay's next visit to New Delhi, the Minister declined to comment, offering no timeline or indication of the visit's purpose.