The distribution of free Onam food kits is likely to be a restricted affair this year, Finance Minister K. N. Balagopal has indicated.
Talking to reporters here on Monday, Mr. Balagopal said coverage across all categories of ration card holders, as was the practice during the COVID-19 outbreak and the Onam season in the year that followed, should not be expected. A final decision on categories that will be eligible is yet to be announced, he said.
(Last year, roughly 87 lakh free Onam food kits were distributed, with an estimated spending of ₹425 crore.)
