The Tibet Autonomous Regional Government began to grant 44 million yuan (about 6.45 million U.S. dollars) in subsidies to 73,000 needy residents and retirees from State-owned enterprises from Wednesday.

The low-income people will be subsidized with each receiving 600 yuan in cash or shopping cards with the same amount of money before February 10.

Picture taken on Feb. 3, 2010 shows the low-income people receive the subsidiary shopping cards.The Tibet Autonomous Regional Government began to grant 44 million yuan (about 6.45 million U.S. dollars) in subsidies to 73,000 needy residents and retirees from State-owned enterprises from Wednesday.

The move is designed to help such people enjoy the Spring Festival and Tibetan New Year and to promote consumption during holidays.

Residents will be able to do shopping with the shopping cards in Tibet's circulation enterprises and outlets.