BENGALURU: Terming the state budget presented by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah as development-oriented, Housing and Minorities Welfare Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan said along with the continuation of five guarantees schemes, impetus had been given to housing, agriculture, rural development, industry, irrigation, education and health sectors.
“The CM has shown his commitment to the welfare of one and all by formulating a different scheme for the departments of Social Welfare, Backward Classes and Minorities Women and Child Welfare and Labour and providing more funds,” said Zameer Ahmed Khan.
“Regarding the Housing Department, the government has set a target of building 12 lakh houses out of which three lakh houses in the current year budget. Funds had been provided for the completion of three lakh houses which had been stopped by the previous government. Under the Minorities Welfare Department, the CM has announced the Constitution of 50 Morarji Desai Residential schools and 100 new Moulana Azad schools. Besides, the government has earmarked Rs 100 crore for the protection of wakf properties, Rs 200 crore for the development of the Christian community development and Rs 50 crore for the improvement of the Jain religious centres. This shows the government’s commitment to the welfare of minorities,” he added.
“50 Morarji Desai Residential Schools will be started with a capacity of 50 students each. 100 Post-matric boys/girls hostels will be started with a capacity of 100 students each. 100 new Maulana Azad Schools will be opened. Pre-university colleges will be started in 25 schools which have their own buildings. Fee reimbursement scheme for students of minority communities who are pursuing B.Sc., Nursing/G.N.M Nursing courses in Government/Private Colleges will be restarted.” read the budget speech of Karnataka CM concerning Minorities Welfare.
An interest subsidy of 6% will be provided on loans up to Rs.10 crore availed from KSFC for setting up new micro and small industries and upgradation of the existing units. Loans will be given through KMDC along with training through the Sericulture department to financially support silk reelers belonging to minority communities.
“Women self-help groups of minority communities will be encouraged to engage in various types of self-employment activities. Rs.10 crore will be allocated for this program. An allocation of Rs. 100 crore will be made for the development of Wakf properties. There will be a special focus on the protection and conservation of protected monuments which are maintained by the ASI.” said Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. (ANI)