AP govt has requested Centre for special status: Min

Rajamahendravaram: Andhra Pradesh government has requested the Centre to accord special status to the state and extend financial assistance to it.

Speaking at function here today, AP Labour Minister Atchannaidu Kinjarapu said the Centre has been requested to accord special status to the state along with financial assistance as its bifurcation had left it with a financial deficit.

He said that although the state government was reeling under a severe financial crisis, it was fulfilling election promises like waiving farmer loans and paying revision to Road Transport Corporation employees, among others.

“Welfare schemes would be launched for the benefit of labour,” he further said, adding that the labour welfare board will meet on October 17 and an important decision will taken.

As to the foundation-stone laying ceremony slated for October 22 for the new AP capital, the minister said it would be held as per the laid down customs and rules.