THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In the present instance, the Onam kit is exclusively designated for Anthyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY - Yellow) cardholders and inhabitants of welfare institutions. This decision was reached during a cabinet meeting held yesterday driven by the prevailing severe economic crisis.

Out of the 93 lakh ration card holders in the state, 5.88 lakh (587,691 people) AAY cardholders and 20,000 residents of various welfare institutions will be recipients of this complimentary kit. The total distribution will encompass 6,07,691 kits. An upfront allocation of 32 crores will be sanctioned to Supplyco for the distribution of these kits. The distribution process will be facilitated through ration shops.

In the preceding year, an Onam kit comprising 13 items was disbursed to blue and white ration cardholders in the state. This time, the included items are distinct. According to the Civil Supplies Department around 87 lakh individuals received the Onam kit during the previous year. The initiation of food kit distribution to the entire populace was introduced in response to the COVID-19 crisis. This effort was perceived as one of the contributing factors to the sustained governance of the Pinarayi administration. Initially, there was a conflict between the finance and civil supplies departments regarding the selection of products to be included in this year's Onam kit.

Contents of the Onam kit and quantities

Tea (Sabari) - 100 grams

Chickpeas - 250 grams

Semiya Payasam Mix (Milma) - 50 grams

Ghee (Milma) - 50 millilitres

Cashew nuts - 50 grams

Ghee (Sabari) - half a litre

Sambar Powder (Sabari) - 100 grams

Chili powder (Sabari) - 100 grams

Turmeric powder (Sabari) - 100 grams

Coriander powder - 100 grams

Cashew nuts - 250 grams

Chickpeas - 500 grams

One kilogram of powdered salt

One cloth bag