‘DBT possible once ration cards linked to bank accounts’

"THE cooperation department was asked to facilitate the opening of new bank accounts, but the process is yet to be completed," the official said, adding that the question of direct benefit transfer would arise only after all ration cards are linked to active bank accounts.

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The practice of providing a cash gift during Pongal was first introduced in 1990 by then Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, who announced ₹100 for pensioners. This was increased to ₹150 in 1998. The distribution of cash assistance along with groceries to ration ca