Minister for Backward Classes Welfare V. Sampath Kumar handing over a new ration card to a beneficiary at the Collectorate in Coimbatore on Saturday.
| Photo Credit: S. SIVA SARAVANAN
A total of 1,202 eligible beneficiaries across Coimbatore district received new ration cards on Saturday (July 18) under the Public Distribution System (PDS).The ration cards were distributed by Minister for Backward Classes Welfare V. Sampath Kumar at the Collectorate as part of a government welfare assistance distribution programme organised by the Co-operation, Food and Consumer Protection Department. District Collector Pavankumar G. Giriyappanavar and other government officers were present.Addressing the gathering, the Minister said the State government was implementing various welfare schemes to meet the basic needs of the public. He said eligible applicants were being issued new ration cards to enable them to receive essentials through fair price shops under the PDS.The beneficiaries included 169 from Coimbatore North taluk, 157 from Madukkarai, 144 from Coimbatore West, 137 from Coimbatore South, 125 from Sulur, 111 from Pollachi, 108 from Perur, 94 from Mettupalayam, 87 from Annur, 39 from Kinathukadavu, 26 from Anaimalai and 5 from Valparai, taking the total to 1,202.The Minister said officials would continue to process applications and issue new family ration cards to all eligible applicants.Later, he chaired a review meeting on admissions to hostels run by the Backward Classes and Most Backward Classes Welfare Department. He instructed hostel wardens to immediately report requirements for basic amenities, including toilets and other essential infrastructure, and directed them to closely monitor the quality of food served to students. Published - July 18, 2026 07:38 pm IST
