Mysuru: The State Government has decided to introduce ‘Shrama Samarthya’ scheme for the benefit of thousands of construction workers in the State.

Briefing press persons after the State Cabinet meeting here on Thursday, Law Minister T.B. Jayachandra said that the Government has earmarked Rs. 99.98 crore to train 37,440 construction workers and also to provide them tool kit under the scheme.

Continuing, Jayachandra said that the State Cabinet gave its nod for amendments to the Mineral Concession rules, 2016 to ensure that sand supply meets the demand.

Noting that there is a severe shortage of sand in the State, the Minister said the amendments will ensure faster disposal of applications for production of M-Sand. At present, there are 2,000 applications from private players for M-sand production pending before Deputy Commissioners, he added.

He further said that another amendment will be made to allow import of sand by State-run MSIL and also private players.

Pointing out that the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Karnataka amendment) Bill, 2017, which received the assent of the President will be placed before the Legislature for ratification, the Minister said that the Bill provides for legalising Kambala.

The other decisions taken by the Cabinet includes approval for setting up Karnataka German Technical Training Institute in Mysuru at a cost of Rs. 48 crore, approval for taking up civil works of the Mandya Unitary University at a cost of Rs. 42 crore and approval for projects worth Rs. 267 crore within the jurisdiction of Krantiveera Sangolli Rayanna Kshetra Development Authority.