Ahead of the Onam festival, the Kerala government has announced a major welfare package to support vulnerable families across the state.

The government will distribute 166 metric tonnes of rice through the public distribution system and provide free Onam food kits worth ₹53 crore to more than 6 lakh families. The beneficiaries include people living in tribal areas, coastal communities, welfare institutions, orphanages and other vulnerable sections.
The initiative aims to ensure that economically disadvantaged households can celebrate Onam without financial hardship. The free kits will contain essential food items, while the additional rice allocation is expected to strengthen food security during the festive season.
The state government has directed departments to complete the distribution before Onam, ensuring timely delivery of relief to eligible beneficiaries across Kerala.
