Rajasthan CM writes to PM; seeks assistance for tourism, hotel industry & MSMEs

Jaipur, Mar 23 (KNN) In the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking financial assistance as well as food and social security for economically weaker sections and Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

 Gehlot, in his letter, pointed out that the livelihood of 23 lakh construction workers, 5 lakh registered factory workers and around one lakh street vendors are in danger because of coronavirus scare.

In order to cope with these troubles, the central government should arrange for a relief package for them, he said, adding that ''the beneficiaries of food security, who live on daily wages, should be provided free wheat for the coming four months.''

The Rajasthan Chief Minister further requested the union government to consider giving concession in to the tourism, hotel and MSMEs in Goods and Services Tax (GST) or by consider postponing it.

Gehlot said that to curb the effect of COVID-19, the state has announced a lockdown till March 31, adding further that with the Central government's help the challenge could be warded off successfully.

The Coronavirus cases in India on Monday reached to 415, forcing lockdowns in several parts of the country. So far, Rajasthan has reported 28 cases.