Date:15/03/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/03/15/stories/2008031553920400.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Sonia showers praise on YSR

M. Rajeev

JAGGAMPET (East Godavari Dt): In the face of mounting criticism from senior party leaders over the priorities of the present government, the public meeting addressed by Congress president Sonia Gandhi has come as a shot in the arm for Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy.

Ms. Gandhi showered lavish praises on Dr. Reddy for the ‘achievements’ of his government that made Andhra Pradesh a ‘role model’ for other States to follow. “There are several achievements of the government that are being talked about in the whole country,” she said at the public meeting here on Friday.

Ms. Gandhi launched the Indira Insurance Scheme for workers in the unorganised sector covering over 38 lakh people.

She handed over a cheque for Rs. 38 crore to the insurance company.

She also gave away the policy documents to three beneficiaries -- G. Venkateswara Rao, P. Rajendra Prasad and R. Satyavati. The new scheme is part of Aam Admi Bima Yojana.

Rice scheme

Ms. Gandhi complimented Dr. Reddy’s vision in supplying rice at Rs. 2 a kg to 82 per cent of the population from Ugadi and said she was equally impressed by Jala Yagnam programme.

The Chief Minister earlier announced that steps had been initiated to cover all farmers who would not benefit from the loan waiver package announced by the Centre and that a policy in this direction would be announced shortly.

‘Sonia a torch-bearer’

Hyderabad Special Correspondent writes: Chief Minister Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy termed Ms. Sonia Gandhi as a “torch bearer of democracy” ever since she took over the reins of the party on this day in 1998.

Dr. Reddy conveyed his greetings to the UPA chairperson on completing 10 successful years as AICC president, a record in the 122-year history of the party.