THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Finance Minister KN Balagopal said that there is no serious financial crisis in the state. He informed that the distribution of welfare pension for a month has been started and financial assistance has been given to Janakeeya hotels and Asha workers.

200 crores was given for paddy procurement. The Minister alleged that the Center was withholding the money due to Kerala even on grounds that full-stops and commas were missing in the application.

Anganwadi employees who have completed 10 years of service will be given a salary increase of Rs1000 and 500 rupees for those below 10 years of service and 1000 rupees increase for Asha workers. About one lakh people will be benefited. KN Balagopal said that the MPs have agreed to file a petition against the central government's action.

He also pointed out that Kerala will not have any pending arrears if the Center pays at least half of the money to be given. At least what is given to other states should be given to Kerala. Treating states differently does not bode well for corporate federalism. He also alleged that there has been a shortfall of Rs 30,000 crore in the central government's payment.