The good news on a bright Monday morning is that there are indications that the state government is planning out prohibition in a phased manner. A daring decision that has to be commended if at all, it is put into practice. That simply means soon we could send alcohol out of the state and bring in progress instead, say experts. The news has gathered prominence because of the quotings from the Finance Minister (FM) Annam Ramanarayana Reddy, on Sunday.
On the sidelines of a personal visit to the Srikakulam district, the Minister chatted with the media personnel. FM said that the recent new policy on liquor auctions is the first step towards prohibition. As it is a sensitive issue the government would like to implement prohibition in a phased manner. Of course it is a known fact that there exists a liquor lobby in the state which will go allout to revesrse this trend, say critics.
The FM also ascertained that the state's financial situation is steady and there is no need to panic. He also assured that the funds allocated to the minorities and weaker sections, as per the SC/ST sub-committee would be well spent for the benfit of the groups, in this financial year itself. (With inputs from internet- AW AarKay)
