Date:02/05/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/05/02/stories/2005050209320400.htm

Andhra Pradesh

YSR calls for review of DWCRA activities

Special Correspondent

HYDERABAD: The Chief Minister, Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, has called for a review of DWCRA activities to ensure a greater say for women members in spreading their economic activity. He also sought strict implementation of the decision to double the assistance extended to nearly 60 lakh DWCRA women in the State.

In a statement here on Sunday, Dr. Reddy said a 16-point programme to empower women was being implemented in the State to put an end to the exploitation. In the past the DWCRA women were given only 3 per cent interest on their savings while being charged 15 per cent on the loans given to them by banks out of their own savings.

The advent of the Congress rule had put an end to the exploitation and the Government was also not forcing the women to attend his meetings contrary to such a practice prevailing under the Telugu Desam regime.

He urged officials to review implementation of old-age and widow pension schemes after the hike effected from Rs. 75 to Rs.100.