Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Tuesday rubbished reports of the Singareni coal mines being privatised by the Union government. He said there was no scope for it as the State government held the majority share of 51% and, if need be, it would purchase the Centre’s share of 49%.
The Chief Minister was addressing Singareni workers at Pragati stadium in Srirampur area, after laying the foundation stone for opening six new underground coal mines. He had earlier moved in the miners’ residential colony and interacted with their families.
Dependant jobs
Mr. Rao said the imbroglio related to employment to dependants of miners would be solved by changing the name to compassionate appointment. He also announced constitution of a new medical board for the benefit of miners.
The miners would get free electricity and water starting February 28, for which the Chief Minister issued orders. This was a demand being made by all trade unions.
By another order, Mr. Rao directed the Singareni management to sanction ₹400 crore for housing for the miners. He said 10,000 houses would be built in a phased manner in the Singareni Collieries.
With regard to waiver of Income Tax for Singareni workers, the Chief Minister said a resolution in this regard would be passed in the State Assembly during the coming budget session and would be sent to the Union government for its approval.
