THIRUVANANATHAPURAM: Former Defence Minister and Congress leader A K Antony has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking a special package for the needy in states including Kerala who are reeling under Covid, financial crisis and natural calamity.

In his letter, Antony underscores the need for implementing the scheme for direct transfer of money to the needy. “Even after five months, lockdowns and restrictions are continuing in Kerala and other parts of the country…

A sizeable portion of the population in the country has no fixed income and they are finding it difficult to move forward in their life. Besides, health and financial issues, the natural calamity has also now taken its toll on people.

Strong wind and heavy rain have created a scary atmosphere in states. Coastal areas in Kerala has borne the brunt of sea attacks.

Under these circumstances people will need the support of the government. Therefore I request you to allot special package for them and implement the scheme of transferring money directly to the account of beneficiaries,” says the letter.