more-in Expressing concern over severe drought across the State, Forest Minister C. Srinivasan said that the government had constituted special teams at State and district-levels to chalk out area specific schemes to provide drinking water and other basic amenities. Speaking at a function to distribute gadgets to the differently abled and other beneficiaries here on Sunday, he said the government was committed to delivering not only welfare schemes, but also drinking water at a time of drought. Increased maternity care allowance, 50% grant for purchase of two-wheeler for women and closure of 500 TASMAC shops were some other main schemes introduced by the government all in the interest of womenfolk, the Minister said. At present, recruitment of cook for anganwadi centres was in progress. If there were any irregularities in the recruitment process, the public may lodge complaints for immediate action, he appealed. Later, he distributed two-wheelers to 30 differently abled persons, marriage assistance to 36 beneficiaries and house pattas and educational assistance. Kodaikanal Minister for Dairy Development K.T. Rajendra Balaji said that a full-fledged dairy farm would be set up soon at an estimated cost of ?1 crore in Palani block. Part of the area within the campus of Kodaikanal bus stand would be brought under control of the Kodaikanal Municipality. “We will consult the Transport Minister to convert this site for creating parking bay for vehicles to ease traffic congestion,” he noted. Later, the Minister inspected Bryant Park and flower gardens and expressed satisfaction over the arrangements and development for the forthcoming summer festival.

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