Date:08/11/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/11/08/stories/2008110858100700.htm

National

Congress promises rice for Rs. 2 per kg

Manifesto has several measures for Tribal and SC population

Raipur: Releasing its manifesto on Friday, the Congress party has promised to provide rice at Rs 2 per kilogramme to the common man and free power supply to farmers in the State, if it comes to power in the coming Assembly election.

If Congress comes to power, 35 kilogramme rice at Rs 2 a kg for each ration cardholder would be provided apart from free power supply to farmers and a bonus of Rs 251 on every quintal of paddy procured by the Government, AICC treasurer Motilal Vora said.

The manifesto, which was released simultaneously at Raipur, Jagdalpur and Bilaspur, also promised an underground metro train facility on Raipur-Bhilai-Durg route, 75 per cent subsidy on digging tube well for irrigation of up to 10 acres of land.

No land acquisition

No farm land acquisition without farmer’s consent, a cap on sale of agricultural land to outsiders, 50 per cent reservation for women in government services are some of the other major promises made by the Chhattisgarh Pradesh Congress Committee (CPCC) in its manifesto.

Besides promising to increase the remuneration for tendu leave collectors to Rs 100 a bundle from existing Rs 60 a bundle, the party has also vowed to give priority to local youths in jobs in public sector undertakings and private industries.

Schools, social security pension of Rs 500, old age pension and handicapped pension are among other commitments made by the party in its manifesto.

With an eye on the Tribal and Scheduled Caste population, the manifesto promises several measures such as increase in scholarships for tribal students, setting up of more technical institutions, hostels and government assistance to pursue higher education abroad.

The party also has a special chapter for minority which declares party’s commitment to ensure security and equality for the community.

The party has also pledged to provide all facilities as suggested by the Sachar Committee and to implement the Prime Minister’s 15-point programme for the minorities. -- PTI