Nellore: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said he had asked the education department to come out with a plan to offer certificates and degrees to women who are interested in studying from home.

He stressed that academics and financial stability are the key to women’s empowerment.

He added that the government is drawing up plans to train women in martial arts to enable them protect themselves. He addressed a large gathering of women to mark International Women’s Day on Sunday.

Mr Naidu made it clear that the government will not tolerate atrocities against women.

He said those harassing women would face stern action. He added a woman DSP would be posted in every district to deal with women’s issues.

He promised to waive the interest paid by self-help groups for outstanding loans.The Chief Minister hinted at supplying nutritious food to pregnant women through self-help groups.

Expressing satisfaction over the performance of self-help groups involved in sand mining, which generated `280 crore revenue in five months, he revealed the governments intention to hand over all sand reaches to women.