THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Daltonganj, Dec 12: The distribution of free blankets to the poor, including freed bonded labourers, is scheduled for December, but the exact timeline remains unclear.
These free blankets are designated for landless individuals, homeless people, and widows, and ensuring they reach the most deserving recipients is a complex task. Demand often exceeds supply, and many will lobby to secure one.
Vikram Anand, the Assistant Director of Social Security for Palamu district, explained to The Jharkhand Story correspondent, “We will instruct our Circle Officers (COs) to be meticulous in distributing the blankets to ensure they reach the most deserving and needy individuals, especially those in dire need during the harsh winter.”
Ranchi and Dhanbad to get largest allocations
Sameera S, Director of the State Social Security Department, in a letter dated December 9, directed all 24 Deputy Commissioners of Jharkhand to submit details on the distribution of free woollen blankets at the Prakhand, Nagar Nigam, Nagar Parishad, and Nagar Panchayat levels. The allotted consignments are expected to reach each district soon.
An estimated 9,20,245 blankets are to be distributed among the poor across Jharkhand’s 24 districts.
It remains uncertain whether the state procured the blankets from Panipat or Ludhiana.
Ranchi district is set to receive the largest allocation, with 81,297 blankets, followed by Dhanbad, which will receive 74,887 blankets.
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In the Palamu division, the district of Palamu leads with 54,115 blankets, surpassing Garhwa (36,901 blankets) and Latehar (20,280 blankets).
Other allocations include Simdega district, which will receive 16,726 blankets, and Lohardaga, which will receive slightly over 12,000.
The Jharkhand Story has obtained a copy of Director Sameera S’s letter.
Centralized procurement and strict blanket specifications
The Assistant Director of Social Security for Palamu, Vikram Anand, confirmed, “We have been allotted 54,115 blankets and are awaiting their arrival. We expect the consignment to take a few more days to reach Daltonganj.”
Unlike previous years, when each district was responsible for procuring its blankets, this financial year (2024-25), the state’s Social Security Department has centralized the procurement process.
The department has also established strict specifications for the blankets: they must consist of 70% wool and 30% synthetic fibres, measure 231 cm x 154 cm, weigh 2.1 kg, feature a 2/2 twill weave, and have a maximum shrinkage of 5%.
Winter and challenges in blanket distribution
According to the India Meteorological Department’s 7-day forecast starting December 10, Palamu will experience moderate to dense fog in the early morning, followed by clear skies during the day. Temperatures are expected to hover around 9°C throughout the week.
The distribution of free blankets often faces logistical and social challenges. In some instances, recipients have been known to sell their free blankets in exchange for illicit alcohol.
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Additionally, blanket distribution events are often turned into symbolic “occasions,” where officials distribute blankets at public places such as railway stations and bus stands, targeting those visibly suffering from the cold.
While the initiative is essential for helping the poor endure harsh winters, delays and the lobbying associated with distribution remain persistent hurdles for the programme.
