Rs 3,780 cr for minority concentration districts approved

New Delhi, Mar 27 (UNI) The Govenment today approved a scheme providing for Rs 3,780 crore for the socio-economic development of the people of 90 minority concentration districts during the XIth Plan.

The districts were identified under the Prime Minister's New 15 Point Programme for the welfare of minorities.

Briefing reporters, an official spokesperson said the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved introducing the 'Multi-sectoral Development Programme' for minority concentration districts, with 100 per cent Central assistance.

''Absolutely critical infrastructure linkages such as connecting roads, basic health infrastructure, ICDS centres, skill development and marketing facilities required for improving the living conditions of the people of these districts would also be included in the Programme.'' The focus will be on rural and semi-rural areas of the 90 identified districts.

As the Programme has been included in the XIth Plan, Rs 120 crore has been earmarked for 2007-08.

For 2008-09. the Central assistance is Rs 800 crore, for 2009-10 Rs 1,100 crore, for 2010-11 Rs 1,100 crore, and for 2011-12 Rs 660 crore.

A suitable monitoring system would be put in place to monitor the Programme.

An independent in-depth evaluation would be made after two years to assess the need for any mid-term correction.

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