Chennai, May 30 (IANS). Tamil Nadu Food and Civil Supplies Minister P. Venkataraman on Saturday called for greater participation of people in the fight against tobacco addiction and ensuring transparency in the Public Distribution System (PDS).
He appealed to the citizens to directly complain about irregularities in ration shops and assured that prompt and strict action would be taken in cases of hoarding or misappropriation of essential commodities.
P. Venkataraman said that the government is committed to reducing tobacco consumption and extending the benefits of the Public Distribution System to the poor and needy in a transparent and effective manner. He urged people to provide active support in both these campaigns.
The Food and Civil Supplies Minister spoke to reporters after inaugurating a tobacco awareness rally at Marina Beach on the occasion of ‘World No Tobacco Day’. He stressed the need for continuous awareness campaigns to reduce tobacco consumption and protect public health.
Venkataraman said, “Tamil Nadu must become a tobacco-free state. The harmful effects of tobacco have been known for decades. It is our collective responsibility to work towards eliminating tobacco use and creating a healthy society.”
The Minister said that tobacco addiction is affecting a large section of the population, causing serious health consequences and social challenges. He said that although many organizations and individuals are actively engaged in de-addiction efforts, awareness remains the most effective tool to prevent people, especially the younger generation, from falling into this addiction.
He said, “Many people are still suffering due to tobacco dependence. Although rehabilitation and de-addiction initiatives are being taken up across the state, creating awareness is equally important. Only through continuous mass education can we build a stronger, healthier and more productive society,” he said.
Emphasizing the government’s commitment towards public welfare, Venkatraman said the state administration is actively working to resolve long-pending complaints raised by citizens and improve the delivery of essential services.
“People are constantly bringing forward issues and demands that have remained unresolved for years. The government is addressing these concerns in a systematic manner and is committed to ensuring that welfare schemes reach beneficiaries without any delay,” he said.
On the issue of functioning of ration shops, the minister urged the public to remain alert and report any irregularities directly to the Food and Civil Supplies Department.
He warned, “If anyone has any complaints regarding ration shops, they can contact us and register their complaints. The department will investigate every complaint. If ration rice or any other PDS item is found being hoarded, misappropriated or misused, immediate and strict action will be taken against those responsible.”
–IANS
ASH/VC
