Sat Jun 21 12:35:33 UTC 2025: ## Summary of Text:

This article from The Hindu reports on the crackdown on PDS (Public Distribution System) rice smuggling in Tamil Nadu, India. In the past five months, 56 people have been detained under the Goondas Act for this offense. Civil Supplies CID (CS-CID) inspections have been conducted in four zones across the state, resulting in the seizure of 878 metric tonnes of PDS rice worth ₹1.06 crore, the arrest of 4,608 people, and the seizure of 1,099 vehicles. Monitoring has been increased in border districts to prevent inter-state smuggling, and a warning has been issued against using PDS rice for poultry feed.

## News Article:

**Tamil Nadu Cracks Down on PDS Rice Smuggling: Dozens Detained Under Goondas Act**

**Namakkal, India – June 21, 2025** – Tamil Nadu authorities are intensifying their efforts to combat the illegal smuggling of Public Distribution System (PDS) rice. Inspector General of Police (IG) Rubesh Kumar Meena of the Civil Supplies CID (CS-CID) announced today that 56 individuals have been detained under the stringent Goondas Act in the past five months for their involvement in the illicit trade.

The crackdown follows extensive inspections conducted across four zones of the state, targeting the diversion of subsidized rice intended for vulnerable populations. According to IG Meena, these inspections have yielded significant results.

“In the last five months, we have seized 878 metric tonnes of PDS rice, valued at ₹1.06 crore, from smugglers,” Meena stated. “A total of 5,120 cases have been registered, and 4,608 individuals have been arrested in connection with these crimes.”

The authorities have also seized 1,099 vehicles, including 434 four-wheelers, used in the smuggling operation. With evidence suggesting cross-border activity, monitoring has been heightened in districts bordering Kerala and Karnataka.

Authorities are also cracking down on other misuse of the PDS rice. “We have issued a stern warning against using PDS rice for feeding chickens in poultry farms,” Meena added.

The CS-CID is committed to curbing these illegal activities and ensuring that subsidized food reaches those who need it most. The crackdown is ongoing, with authorities vowing to take decisive action against anyone found involved in PDS rice smuggling.

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