Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Jun 11: A helpline office for the Christians to get the various facilities of the central and state government was inaugurated by veteran writer Dr Gerald Pinto along with MLC Ivan D’Souza on Monday, June 10 here at YMCA building near to taluk office.
Addressing the gathering, MLC Ivan D’souza said, “Many facilities are given to our community by the state government. But our laziness to avail them does not fulfill the objectives of these facilities. Other minority brothers demand for their amenities and get it done. The state government in Karnataka is working for the welfare of the minorities. Under Arivu scheme, our minority students get loan facilities for their studies. We are also providing assistance for students who desire to study abroad.
“Commitment for work is lacking in leaders of our community. When the community is in need, I am always ready to help them. In Vidhana Parishad also, I have raised my voice in favour of my community. I am here to protect my people. For this reason, I had decided during my last visit to Udupi district during election campaign that I will be visiting the district once in a month. I had given responsibility to the Christian leaders of this area to set up an office for this reason. As a result, this office is established. Once in a month, I will be visit this office and try to solve all sorts of the problems of the community.
“Through the establishment of Christian Development Corporation, our government is working for the betterment of Christians. Rs 200 crore has been allotted just for the development of Christian community. In the next budget year, this amount will be raised to Rs 250 crore. Many churches can avail money from this corporation for renovation, development of cremation ground, and for various other purposes. I have toured all over the state and have tried my best to bring awareness about these facilities,” he said.
Ivan also urged the leaders to insist all the leaders and ministers of state government who visit the district to visit this office and listen to the grievances of Christian community.
The office will help the Christian community to avail all types of facilities and benefits available to the community.
Alwyn Quadrous, president, Catholic Sabha Udupi Pradesh, Melwin D’Souza, lawyer Michael D’Souza, taluk panchayat member Mudarangadi Ronald Karkada, Christian Sangatane Udupi district Charles Ambler and others were present.
Sunil Cabral welcomed the gathering, Melwin D’Souza rendered the vote of thanks and Steevan Colaco compered the programme.