AP govt to launch its cash transfer scheme from April

"We are contemplating the UID-linked CTS for different welfare schemes we are implementing. Relevant exercise is on to bring the CTS into force and the Chief Minister is positive about it," AP Finance Minister Aanam Ramanarayana Reddy said today.

While the Government of India's Direct Benefits Transfer scheme covers a set of schemes, the state government plans to implement the CTS for welfare programmes like social security pensions, scholarships, etc, the minister said.

"The scheme will be linked to the unique identification number and the beneficiaries' bank accounts. This will ensure transparency in implementing the government programmes," Reddy said.

The Centre's DBT scheme is being implemented in four districts from January 1 and will be extended to one more district in the state from next month.

The Finance Minister said the government was planning to conduct the Budget Session of the state Legislature from March 11.

For the first time, the state Assembly will see the constitution of Standing Committees for different departments.

The state government will present a vote-on-account Budget in March for 2013-14 financial year followed by regular budget in May.

The Standing Committees will study the budget proposals before they are cleared by the Legislature, according to the minister.