BENGALURU: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has said that he would prefer books over flowers or shawls given by people as a mark of respect at various events.
Taking to Twitter, Siddaramaiah said, “I have decided not to accept flowers or shawls from people who often give it as a mark of respect. This is during both personal and public events. People can give books if they want to express their love and respect in the form of gifts. May all your love and affection continue to be on me”.
Siddaramaiah on Saturday said that as promised, the Congress government has in principle approved the five guarantees announced in the party’s manifesto before the elections. The CM was addressing the media about the decisions taken in his first cabinet meeting after assuming office.
It is estimated that Rs 1,200 crore per month is required to implement the Gruha Jyoti scheme, to provide 200 units of free power to every household. Also, Rs 2,000 per month will be transferred to the woman head of family under the Gruha Lakshmi scheme, 10 kg rice will be given under Anna Bhagya and Rs 3,000 per month will be given to unemployed graduates and Rs 1,500 to diploma holders who have passed out during the current educational year for up to two years. Women, who are residents of the state, will be given free bus pass to travel in government buses, he informed.
Guidelines are being worked out in detail and will be discussed in the next cabinet meeting, he said, adding that the Cabinet has also decided to convene a legislature session from May 22 to 24, and the Budget will be presented in July.
According to preliminary estimates, Rs 50,000 crore is required annually to fulfill the 5-guarantees, he said. The CM also added that information about Indira canteen is also being sought and they will be started soon. (ANI)