Initiatives/ Scheme Thayumanavar Scheme Context: Under the Chief Minister's 'Thayumanavar' scheme, Public Distribution System (PDS) commodities are being delivered directly to the homes of senior citizens aged over 65 and persons with disabilities. In this context, orders have been issued for sales personnel from 990 fair price shops operating under the Cooperative Department across 18 zones in Chennai to deliver essential commodities to homes on July 4 and 6. About Thayumanavar Scheme Launched on: 12 August 2025 Objective: To provide ration items at the doorstep of senior citizens (above 70 years) and persons with disabilities, ensuring convenience and food security. Key Features Covers around 21.7 lakh beneficiaries across Tamil Nadu. Ration items are delivered directly from 34,809 Fair Price Shops (FPSs) under the Public Distribution System (PDS). Home delivery is carried out on the second Saturday and Sunday of every month. Implementation Tamil Nadu has 37,328 ration shops across the state. In the last four years, 2,394 new ration shops have been opened to improve PDS coverage. Delivery is made through PDS vehicles to ensure timely distribution. Beneficiaries Senior citizens aged above 65 years. Persons with disabilities across Tamil Nadu. Significance Makes it easier for elderly and disabled people to receive essential ration items. Reduces the need to travel to Fair Price Shops. Improves food security, convenience, and dignity for vulnerable groups. Uses Tamil Nadu's strong Public Distribution System (PDS) for efficient doorstep delivery.
