Consumers who went to renew the validity of their family cards and buy monthly provisions at ration shops were in for a pleasant surprise when they were presented with dhotis and saris.
Following instructions from the Chief Minister, the Revenue Department started distributing free dhotis and saris on Tuesday, and is aiming at completing the exercise within a fortnight, concurrently with the pasting of extra sheets for extension of family cards for two years.
Visitors to some of the select outlets in Chennai expressed surprise as dhotis and saris were distributed without any formal announcement.
As per the agenda displayed at the ration shop, about 100 inner sheets will be given daily for the next 10 days. The head of the family should personally visit the ration shop to get the card renewed after signing the register. After that any member can visit the outlet to buy provisions.
Talking to The Hindu , a top official of Food and Civil Supplies said family cards were issued in 2005 with four-year validity. Thereafter, additional inner sheets were being affixed to the ration card.
