CII hails AP decision to build new medical colleges

Hyderabad Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) suggested Government of Andhra Pradesh (AP) to continue the economic activities during the pandemic with appropriate Covid-19 safety guidelines and complimented State Government's efforts under the leadership of CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on handling the pandemic despite revenue shortage.

D Tirupathi Raju, Chairman, CII, AP, appreciated the Government efforts to control Covid-19 and welcomed the Cabinet decision to approve the construction of 16 medical colleges at a cost of Rs 7,880 crore, development of existing medical colleges with Rs 3,820 crore. He felt that these measures would greatly enhance health care infrastructure and provide affordable health care to people. Industry was always supported in setting up of required oxygen plants in various hospitals based on the requirement arising out of Covid-19.

CK Ranganathan, Chairman, CII Southern Region, said, "CII is working with Government of AP in Business Continuity and supporting MSME's to overcome the economic downturn by facilitating cross sector initiatives and policy interventions during Covid crisis. Thanks to AP Government for rendering support and also urged the government to continuously support the industry for the economic growth in the State".

CII also suggested triggers for identifying restrictions in micro containment zones by following (i) if Covid hospital beds at less than 25 per cent occupancy, there can be normal activities with Covid appropriate behaviour; (ii) if Covid hospital beds are at 25 per cent-50 per cent occupancy then restriction on social activities, strict monitoring and punitive action for non-adherence to Covid appropriate behaviour and (iii) if Covid hospital beds at 50 per cent-75 per cent occupancy then a calibrated lockdown on some activities in micro zones with strict monitoring to avoid crowds and finally if Covid hospital beds over 75 per cent occupancy, then lockdown of micro zones and additional restrictions, if required.