In Chennai, a new government push to deliver essential ration supplies right to the doorsteps of senior citizens over 70 and people with disabilities (PwDs) isn’t hitting its targets yet. Launched in August under the Thayumanavar Scheme, the program aims to boost food security for vulnerable groups in Tamil Nadu—but early results show room for improvement.
The idea is straightforward: make life easier by skipping the trip to ration shops. Officials targeted about 1.67 million ration cards, helping around 2.17 million people. They hoped doorstep delivery of Public Distribution System (PDS) commodities like rice and oil would push coverage above 70%. But in August, it dipped to 65%, then bounced back to 70% in September—still matching pre-scheme levels.
Only 40% to 45% of eligible folks actually got their goods delivered in those first two months. Many others stuck with picking up supplies at local shops, weren’t home when delivery teams arrived, had moved away, or—sadly—passed away. About 8% of listed beneficiaries turned out to be deceased, and their names are now up for removal from the rolls.
Timing plays a big role in the hiccups. Deliveries happen in the second week of the month, but lots of people prefer grabbing their PDS rations in the first week. To fix this, the Cooperation Department plans to switch to the first Saturday and Sunday starting in October, aiming to catch more folks at home.
Coverage varies wildly by district. Places like Ariyalur, Perambalur, and Kanniyakumari are leading with 80% to 81% reach—counting those who still opt for shop pickups but excluding the deceased. Chennai, though, lags behind at just 53% uptake, a slight bump from the 50% before the scheme kicked off.
District leaders are working to expand the program by spotting more eligible PwDs and updating beneficiary lists. But field staff face real challenges: each delivery involves biometric checks and travel, which eats up time—especially in high-rises without elevators. Women workers, in particular, struggle with heavy loads and long routes without enough backup.
On the bright side, those who have received doorstep PDS deliveries love it. “It takes away the hassle of traveling, especially when you’re frail or rely on family,” one beneficiary shared. Authorities are optimistic that tweaking schedules, cleaning up lists, and reshuffling delivery areas will help the Thayumanavar Scheme gain speed and better serve Tamil Nadu’s seniors and PwDs in the months ahead.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
