This move follows a decision to levy cess with the implementation of Andhra Pradesh Building and Other Constructions Welfare Board Act of 1996.

The Chief Minister, Dr Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, said that the revenue thus generated would be used for the welfare of construction workers.

With some Rs 50,000 crore worth of construction works under way in the State, the Government expects to net Rs 500 crore.

As a part of this move, the State has constituted a building construction welfare board.

To extend welfare measures for workers, a committee has been constituted to study the problems faced by workers in construction-related work.

The panel will tour the State and see how the learnings could be used in other parts of the State.

On the current beedi controversy, the Chief Minister said that he hoped that the Central Government would withdraw its order on displaying danger mark on beedi bundles.

The Government was considering skill development programme for beedi workers, he added.

It would provide training to women, who would be able to secure jobs in some new sectors of the economy. Citing the case of the growth in the textile industry, Dr Reddy said that by providing training to women, they would be able to secure jobs in the textile sector. The Chief Minister handed over awards to 14 best-managed companies and employees.