The Hindu Business Line : AP steps up efforts to help Gulf returnees

The Chief Minister, Dr Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, today announced that moneylenders, who have helped these people, would be asked to stop collecting money for one year on the lines similar to a moratorium announced for farmers in 2004.

The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure that the interest rates are regulated as per rules. According to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office, 14,800 people returned to Karimnagar from the United Arab Emirates.

About 12,000 people were also deported to Nizamabad and 1,000 people, mostly women, to East Godavari district. It is estimated that another 15,000 people are in the process of being deported to the State. After a review meeting here today, the Chief Minister asked construction majors to provide jobs on a priority basis to Gulf returnees.

The representatives and executives of some of the private companies have agreed to this suggestion as they are in need of skilled manpower.

Representatives of Maytas Infra, GVK, GMR, Indu group, Lanco, Nagarjuna Construction Company and Meenakshi Constructions were present at the meeting and promised their support in providing jobs. The Labour Commissioner was directed to coordinate with district collectors of Karimnagar, Nizamabad and National Academy of Construction and other agencies and provide necessary training. The Government has promised free food and shelter during the training period.

As a part of this drive, it is proposed to host Job Melas starting Tuesday (September 18) where representatives of construction companies will be present.