September 7, 2013
West Bengal Chief Minister Ms Mamata Banerjee disburses scholarships to minority students
Speaking at a programme organised by the State Minority Affairs and Madrasa Education Department for disbursing scholarships and assistance under various schemes, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said “the budgetary allocation of minority affairs and madrasa education department has increased from Rs 121 crore (in 2010-2011) to Rs 854 crore (in 2013-2014) and scholarships have been given to 34 lakh students by the state government, while 7 lakh students got scholarships during 2009 to 2011. “
Speaking on some ongoing development plans the Chief Minister added “1 lakh 76 thousand students will get school uniforms. All 19 districts in the State are getting Minority Bhavans, some of which are already functional. The Government will offer post matric scholarship to students. “
Chief Minister Miss Mamata Banerjee assured imams and muezzins “I know the Imams and muezzins are worried following the court order, but I want to assure you there is nothing to worry. Law will take its own course and we respect the court's order. But at the same time I want to assure that we will democratically ensure livelihood of Imams and muezzins. We are with you always. We have the Wakf Board, Minorities Commission and Madrassa Service Commission which will help us fulfil the demands and aspirations of the imams and muezzins and other minorities. We will address the problem together. I can sacrifice everything for people but cannot sacrifice the people for anything. The government paid a monthly allowance of Rs 2,500 and Rs 1,500 to 27,784 imams and 18,553 muezzins from April 2012 to August 2013. When I have made a commitment, then I do not fail.“
