Dr B Thomas (Special correspondent)
It has been decided to extend the ‘Raitha Vidya Nidhi’ scholarship scheme for children of weavers and fishermen families too this year, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said.
Speaking at a programme at Uchila Mahalakshmi temple in Udupi district Bommai said, complementing the Union government’s programme to make fishing a profitable vocation, State government would provide 100 deep sea fishing boats for fishermen.
Under the Rajiv Gandhi Housing scheme 5000 houses would be built for fishermen.Desilting work would be taken up at 8 ports to improve fishing facilities.
Women’s empowerment
Stressing the importance of women in economic development of the State, Bommai said,an Anchor Bank would be linked to Women’s Self Help Groups.
They would be provided loans up to Rs1.50 lakh to take up economic activities to realise the State government’s objective of women’s empowerment.
Diesel subsidy for fishermen
Hostel facilities would be provided for students from fishermen’s families by the Social Welfare department.
Fishermen would be provided Diesel subsidy for the entire 10 month season.
The Muzrai department would provide a grant of Rs.5 cr for the Sri Mahalakshmi temple as requested by the Mogaveerara Sangha, Bommai said.
