The coalition government cabinet in Andhra Pradesh has wrapped up its latest session, announcing several significant initiatives. Among the key decisions is the approval of a free gas cylinder scheme for women, which is set to launch during Diwali. The cabinet has determined that three cylinders will be provided annually, distributed every four months, under the central government’s Ujjwala scheme and the state’s Deepam scheme. This initiative is projected to impose a financial burden of Rs 2,700 crores on the state government each year.
Additionally, the cabinet approved the abolishment of the garbage tax. Discussions were held concerning pending fee reimbursement dues for students, amounting to Rs 3,500 crores from the previous administration.
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In a move to enhance temple management, the cabinet has decided to increase the number of members in temple management committees from 15 to 17, ensuring that at least two Brahmins are included among the members.
The cabinet also endorsed the removal of seigniorage and GST charges under the free sand policy, with the seigniorage charge removal expected to result in a Rs 264 crore burden on the government. The Chief Minister indicated that the government would absorb losses until the free sand target is met. Furthermore, the cabinet has sanctioned the provision for individuals to collect sand from designated lands.
Lastly, the cabinet has agreed to a proposal to reclaim 15 acres of valuable land previously allocated to the controversial seer Swaroopanandendra of the Sharada Peetham in Visakhapatnam by the Jagan administration.