On August 12, 2025, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin launched the ‘Thayumanavar Thittam’ scheme to deliver ration products at the doorsteps of over 21.7 lakh elderly and disabled citizens under PDS scheme. The scheme aims to remove difficulties faced by senior citizens and persons with disabilities in accessing ration, promoting convenience and accessibility.
Key features of the ‘Thayumanavar Thittam’ scheme:
The scheme provides for the delivery of essential commodities like rice, sugar, and other necessities to the homes of beneficiaries.
· The scheme is expected to benefit approximately 20.4 lakh senior citizens and 1.3 lakh persons with disabilities across the state.
· The scheme will be implemented by the Co-operation, Food and Consumer Protection Department, with ration delivery vehicles visiting beneficiaries' homes on the second Saturday and Sunday of every month
About Public Distribution System:
The Public Distribution System (PDS) was introduced in 1947 as a rationing system to manage food grain scarcity during and after World War II. In 1997, it evolved into the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS), aiming to focus food subsidies on Below Poverty Line (BPL) families.
· The central government, through the Food Corporation of India (FCI), manages procurement and storage. State governments handle distribution, beneficiary identification, and operate Fair Price Shops.
· The Public Distribution System (PDS) in India ensures food security by providing essential commodities at subsidized rates to economically vulnerable populations.
· It aims to stabilize prices, ensure minimum nutritional standards, and protect consumers from inflation. This joint initiative between central and state governments plays a key role in poverty alleviation.
· In 2000, the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) was launched to support the poorest of the poor, offering them highly subsidized food grains to enhance food security among the most vulnerable households.
· The National Food Security Act (NFSA) was enacted in 2013, providing legal entitlement to subsidized food grains for up to two-thirds of India’s population and further streamlining PDS operations.
About Tamil Nadu’s Public Distribution System:
Tamil Nadu’s Public Distribution System (PDS) is a universal scheme providing subsidized food grains to all households, unlike targeted systems in other states. Each family receives 20 kg of rice monthly, while Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) families get 35 kg.
· The Annapurna Yojana supports elderly individuals without pensions. Essential commodities like wheat, sugar, and kerosene are also distributed.
· The Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Corporation (TNCYCS) manages procurement, storage, and delivery.
Conclusion:
The Thayumanavar Thittam marks a significant leap in Tamil Nadu’s ongoing efforts to make food access more inclusive and dignified. By delivering ration supplies directly to the homes of senior citizens and persons with disabilities, the State strengthens its universal PDS model with compassion and efficiency.
