Thu Jan 09 12:40:36 UTC 2025: **Pongal Gift Hampers Distributed in Salem and Namakkal Districts**

**Salem, Tamil Nadu, January 9, 2025** – The distribution of Pongal gift hampers commenced in Salem and Namakkal districts today. In Salem, Collector R. Brindha Devi launched the initiative at a fair price shop in Srirangapalayam. The hampers, containing one kilogram of raw rice, one kilogram of sugar, and a sugarcane stalk, are being distributed to 1,078,558 ration cardholders through 1,737 ration shops (1,264 full-time and 473 part-time). This represents a total cost of ₹12.18 crore for the district, including provisions for 983 families in Sri Lankan refugee camps. Token distribution concluded on January 8th. Residents can contact the Salem Collectorate’s control room (0427-2415784, 2451943, and 73387-21707) with any grievances. The event was attended by Salem MP T.M. Selvaganapathi, Mayor A. Ramachandran, and other officials.

Meanwhile, in Namakkal, Collector S. Uma inaugurated the distribution at a Tiruchengode fair price shop. The district will distribute hampers to 540,033 ration cardholders via 958 ration shops at a total cost of ₹6.10 crore.

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