State should cut duties on diesel, demands Lok Satta

The Lok Satta Party today demanded that the State Government reduce the taxes on petroleum products and provide relief to the common man.

Commenting on the steep increase in the diesel price by the Union Government, Lok Satta Party General Secretary pointed out that it would have a deep impact on our State where both the industrial and agricultural sectors have become heavily dependent on diesel for power generation in the wake of unending power cuts. The hike in the diesel price will lead to an escalation in public transport charges and add to the common man's misery.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao said that the ceiling of six LPG cylinders per family per year is harsh. The Union Government should raise the supply to at least eight cylinders.

He welcomed the State Government decision to procure paddy directly from farmers, process it into rice and utilize it under the public distribution system. If properly implemented, the scheme would promote competition between the Government and private rice millers and ensure a remunerative price to the farmer. It will also bring down costs of public distribution.

The Lok Satta leader, however, wanted the Government to ensure that it has effective machinery and adequate infrastructure including warehouses all over the State for making the scheme a success.