In a major relief to people of flood-hit areas in the state, the government has asked bankers to not attach properties in the regions affected by the deluge. The decision, taken in the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday would be placed in the meeting of the State Level Banker's Committee.
The state had earlier declared a moratorium on bank loans in the flood-affected areas.
In August 2018, during the floods, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had announced a one to one-and-half-year moratorium on the loans of small industrial units apart from a half-year moratorium on housing loans in flood-affected areas. The government decision was in consultation with the State-Level Banker's Committee.
It was further decided that banks won’t take margin money on loans of up to Rs five lakh for the reconstruction and repair of houses. Owners of damaged industrial units would also get the benefit.
In September 2018, the Cabinet had approved a one-year moratorium on loans and a 20% cut in the state's annual Plan outlay as part of the post-flood rehabilitation and recovery programme.
It was also decides to offer moratorium on repayment of agricultural, dairy and education loans availed by flood victims.
Project for street vendors
The Cabinet meeting also decided to notify the project conceived for protecting the livelihood of street vendors of the state. The notification issued under Section 38 of Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act proposes to provide a separate area for the vendors to conduct their trade, reports the New Indian Express.
As per this, municipalities and corporations should find separate areas for street vendors and arrange facilities for them. The aim is to ensure protection for their trade.
Legally formed town vending committees will issue certificates to street vendors. The certificates will be issued to those for whom street vending is the livelihood and who don’t conduct any other trade.