Progressive Democratic Front MLC M. Geyanand asserted on Monday that he would formulate a common agenda for development of the Rayalaseema region and focus on it in the Legislative Council.
Dr. Geyanand, who is in the fray for Rayalaseema West MLC Graduates constituency, said he would strive to build an apolitical mass movement to exert pressure on the government to develop Rayalaseema. The MLC asserted that he would strive for scrapping of the contributory pension scheme, equal pay for equal work to contract and outsourced workers, disbursal of unemployment allowance, strengthening of Government educational institutions and hospitals and establishment of employment-intensive industries in Rayalaseema region.
The proposed mega solar plant in Kurnool district would generate a handful of jobs, he remarked and urged the government to set up industries that would employ substantial work force. The agriculture sector was hit by drought and lack of irrigation facilities, industries and employment avenues were resulting in migration of workers, he said. He urged the government to constitute a welfare fund for the welfare of workers in the private sector.
30-point agenda
Dr. Geyanand sought sanction of ₹50,000-crore special package for Rayalaseema, setting up of High Court, railway zone, super speciality hospitals, increase in retirement age to 60 years in public sector undertakings and corporations, mid-day meal in degree and junior colleges, 20 per cent hike in pension for those aged beyond 70 years and welfare schemes for journalists. Seeking his re-election, he released a 30-point agenda on which he would exert pressure on the government and focus in the Legislative Council. Rayalaseema Development Forum convenor Narasimha, co-convenor B.L.N. Prasada Sharma and former NGOs Association leader Sanjanna were present.
