Pathanamthitta 12-12-2011: The Mass Contact Programme has begun at the St Stephen’s Church grounds at Makkamkunnu in Pathanamthitta today. CM inaugurated the function by lighting a ceremonial lamp at the venue at 9.30 am.

The district administration has made elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the mass contact programme. There is a huge turn out for the programme. Serpentine queues are visible in front of the 73 counters at the venue. Special counters are opened for the physically challenged persons, ex-service personnel, etc.

As many as 40,400 petitions have been received by various departments for consideration at the Mass Contact Programme and of this, 26,636 are requests from ration card holders for changing their category from above poverty line (APL) to below poverty line (BPL).

CM is now hearing the petitions filed by the physically challenged persons to disburse relief funds to the beneficiaries.

As many as 1,000 employees attached to various Government departments are present at the venue to ensure the smooth conduct of the programme.