In a major rehabilitation initiative for tsunami-hit states, the Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a package of Rs 2731.04 crore for the fisheries and housing sectors.

The package constitutes the first phase of measures taken by the Centre and covers Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala [Images] and Pondicherry, Finance Minister P Chidambaram said.

He added that the government was working out a separate package for Andaman and Nicobar, which would be worked out after the visit of Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar [Images] to the islands on Thursday.

Briefing reporters after a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh [Images], Chidambaram said Rs 861.82 crore would be released for immediate relief measures.

Also read:

TN seeks Rs 4,800 cr from Centre

Mata gives Rs 100 cr

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