90 lakh families received food kit, 60 lakh people got social security pension: Kerala Minister Balagopal

90 lakh families received free food kits through the public distribution system. Social security pension up to Rs 3,200 was given to nearly 60 lakh people, the minister said

Thiruvananthapuram: Finance minister KN Balagpopal on the Onam eve said that the government has extended helping hands to all households of Kerala for for this festival season..

90 lakh families received free food kits through the public distribution system. Social security pension up to Rs 3,200 was given to nearly 60 lakh people, the minister said in a press release. An Onam allowance of Rs 1,000 was distributed to five lakh MGNREGS workers. Employees of closed down factories in traditional sectors were given ex-ex-gratia of Rs 2,000. Food kits were distributed to the workers of closed down plantations.

Government employees received a bonus of Rs 4,000 or festival allowance of Rs 2,750 according to their salary. An amount of Rs 15,000 was also given as salary advance. Service pensioners received festival allowance of Rs 1,000, said the minister. Kerala celebrates Thiruvonam on Thursday.