Will not scrap state Planning Board: Chandy

He added that the Board had an important role for the development of the state

Kerala chief minister Oommen Chandy today refuted reports that the government has plans to windup the state Planning Board.

“There is no such move and the Board under Vice Chairman K M Chandrashekar is doing a good work,” Chandy told reporters during cabinet briefing here. The Board has an important role for the development of the state, he said, adding, the Board had already prepared a project report on Kerala Vision-2030.

When asked about the Centre’s move to scrap Planning Commission, Chandy said “I have not totally opposed the move. But, I have expressed my own doubts and concern on the issue to the Prime Minister. I am of the view that the Centre should consult with states before taking a decision on the matter.”

Cabinet ratifies new liquor policy
Kerala cabinet today ratified the new liquor policy of the Congress led UDF government which envisaged to shut down bars attached to hotels below the five-star category as part of its plans to reduce availability of liquor.

The cabinet, however deferred a decision on issues related to licences to beer and wine parlours and elite clubs that serve liquor.

Several matters, including issues related to beer and wine parlours and clubs serving liquor, has to incorporate in the new policy, chief minister Oommen Chandy told reporters during cabinet briefing here.

These issues would be taken up at the next cabinet meeting, Chandy said, adding, ruling UDF had taken a strong decision now to close down of about 730 bars.

Meanwhile, as part of new policy, 312 bars attached to hotels below the five-star category would be served notices tomorrow asking them to close their bars by Sept 12. The government had also decided not to renew licences of 418 bars.