Rajahmundry: Union urban development minister M. Venkaiah Naidu appreciated Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu for following the footsteps of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and earnestly implementing all schemes formulated by Mr Modi.

He told reporters that after announcing demonetisation, Mr Naidu was implementing cashless transactions and is an example for others. He said the Centre would introduce JAM (Jandhan, Aadhaar and Mobile) cards. 20,000 such cards would be issued soon in the first phase.

He said that all chambers of commerce in the country have responded positively to demonetisation.

“But, former PM Manmohan Singh had made negative comments on demonetisation. He should realize that during his 10 years of ruling, all sorts of mega scams were perpetrated by his party and its alliance leaders,” he added

He described Mr Modi as “God's gift” to the country, calling him a great reformer who is ushering in cashless transactions and a clean economy. He criticised the Communists who are supporting the bandh against demonetisation.

He said that demonetisation would help the poor and working class in future. He requested people not to support the bandh call and support the demonetisation.

He appreciated bank officials for doing a good job in this crisis. He said that the entire world had praised the decision of Mr Modi on demonetisation.