In brief

Cong asks CM to declare state drought-hit
The state Congress demanded on Friday that the government immediately declares the state drought-hit in the wake of deficient rainfall. Of the nearly 55 lakh hectare agricultural land in the state,cultivation has not been possible at all in 33 lakh hectare area because of low or no rainfall,said WBPCC president Manas Bhuniya. “I have urged the CM to discuss the issue with the agriculture,irrigation and other departments and initiate action,” Bhuniya said.

Social security scheme for transport workers
The state government on Friday launched a scheme that will provide pension and other benefits to about 15 lakh unorganised transport workers and their dependents. Under the West Bengal Transport Workers’ Social Security Scheme 2010,launched by CM Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee,workers enrolled for over five years will be entitled to pension after attaining the age of 60.

PTI