After cell phones, govt plans free cycles sop for minority communities

Just days after promising free cell phones to BPL families in what is widely regarded as a pre-election gimmick by the govt, Planning Commission is now reportedly considering a proposal for distributing free bicycles for class nine girl students belonging to the minority communities, government told the Rajya Sabha today.

"The Working Group constituted by the Planning Commission for 12th Five Year Plan has recommended for 'scheme for free bicycle for class IX girl students belonging to the Minority Community'. The scheme is under consideration of the Planning Commission for in-principle approval," Minister of State for Minority Affairs Vincent Pala said.

Replying to a written question, Minister said, "Government has decided to continue schemes for educational empowerment of the notified minority communities including girl students during the 12th Five Year Plan period."

The projects include pre-matric and post matric scholarships, Maulana Azad Fellowships for Minorities and etc.

"Under all these schemes, minimum of 30 per cent scholarships have been earmarked for eligible girl students from minority communities," Pala said.

Government has also announced a Multi-Sectoral Development Program under which the government has been providing financial assistance to the Minority Concentration Districts to construct girl's hostels and provide additional class rooms.

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