Chennai: Free rice for mosques ahead of Ramzan

CHENNAI: Rice will be given free of cost to mosques across the state for preparation of porridge during the holy month of Ramzan, which begins next week.  In a statement, Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa said orders had been issued for distribution of 4,600 tonnes of rice to about 3,000 mosques.

Fasting ahead of Id would begin around June 8 as the festival is likely to be celebrated on July 8.  “The scheme (introduced in 2001) has been largely welcomed by the members of Muslim community. As I have received requests for continuation of distribution of rice this year too, I have issued orders for distribution of rice to the mosques,” she said. Ms Jayalalithaa said district Collectors have been directed to release sufficient quantity of rice to the mosques and this would cost the exchequer Rs 2.14 crore.