Rajahmundry (AP):
Andhra Pradesh Finance Minister Yanamala Ramakrishnudu today reviewed the drought relief measures undertaken in the state and promised to provide more funds if needed. He attended the drought review meeting at Kakinada, headquarters of East Godavari district near here, along with Deputy Chief Minister N Chinarajappa and senior officers of various departments.
A total of 359 mandals spread over 13 districts had been declared as drought affected and Rs 39 crore released for undertaking relief measures, Ramakrishnudu said.
More money would be given, if required, for drought relief works as there was no dearth of funds for such activities, he said.
He suggested the district administrations to take up the works utilising funds received under rural employment scheme NREGS and CSR.
Speaking about the health of Andhra Pradesh’s economy, he said the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) in 2015-16 stood at a robust 10.99 per cent. GSDP was 10.13 per cent in 2014-15.
Last year’s expansion was possible through growth in the primary sector (especially in livestock segment), which contributed 32 per cent to GSDP, Ramakrishnudu said. The state is aiming at 15 per cent growth rate in the current financial year, he said.
The Finance Minister said release of funds by government departments for various activities has started and asked officials to ensure they were properly utilised.
He advised Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) to provide market link-up to tribal produce, and promised that efforts would be made for proper implementation of funds for SC/ST/BC sub-plans.
Speaking at the meet, Chinarajappa asked officials to take necessary steps to deal with heat-wave conditions in the state. He suggested them to provide water and butter milk to the people through special outlet.
