Centre neglecting Kerala's needs: CM

Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 6: Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan today flayed the Centre for ''neglecting the state's needs'' and said that several projects awaited the Centre's clearance.

Addressing a conference of the Members of Parliament from the state, he said the Kuttanad and Idukki farmers' package was yet to be approved.

The UPA government had cut down foodgrain quota to the state and also electricity from the central pool.

The Kochi Metro Rail Project was now awaiting Planning Commission's approval. ''We have talked to the Centre for its speedy implementation,'' he said.

Mr Achuthanandan said he would lead a march to the Parliament on October 17 to protest the UPA Government's ''neglect'' of the state's demands. His Cabinet colleagues would also take part in the agitation, he added.

UNI