Catholics advised to utilise Karnataka govt’s development fund

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Nov 01, 2016: Managaluru  Karnataka Legislator J R Lobo advised Catholics to make use of the funds allotted by the state government for the community’s welfare.

“An amount of Rs 125 crores is set aside for the development of Catholic communities, and they must make the best use of it,” said MLA Lobo, who is the Vidhana Mandala Backward Class and Minorities’ Committee president.

He was speaking during a discussion held with the Catholic community leaders recently

“The government has announced several programmes for the development of society and a special grant in the budget. The amount of Rs 125 crores can be used for several pro community programmes,” he said.

“The government has created Catholic Development Committee for community development. It has appointed Bengaluru urban development minister K J George as the president and me as the vice president of the committee. It has also formed a subcommittee and appointed me as its president. Petitions for renovation or repairs of churches, cemetery, boundary wall, skills training and other development work in the community can be submitted,” he said.

“Christians comprise 3.6% of the population in the state. The government has given special importance to their development, but the community lags behind in making use of government released funds,” MLA Lobo said.

“Special camps should be held in various districts to make information on government programmes reach the people. Fund up to Rs one crore in the city and Rs 50 lac in towns is being provided for community halls. An amount is also paid for maintenance of old age homes,” he said.

Community representatives requested for additional funds for repairs of churches and donations to poor people. Requests for reservation for Catholics could also be heard in the meeting. They also said extensive details of the government facilities such as scholarships, caste certificates, etc. are required.