Attempt to woo Muslims? Rawat for increase in quota of Haj pilgrims from U'khand

Dehradun, Mar 23: Expressing his government's commitment for the welfare and uplift of the minorities, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Harish Rawat on Monday said he will request Prime Minister Narendra Modi to increase the quota of Haj pilgrims from the state.

Launching a programme here for selection of Haj pilgrims from Uttarakhand this year through a draw of lots, he wished well to everyone who is selected for undertaking the journey and assured them that he will soon urge both the Prime Minister and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to increase the quota of Haj pilgrims from the state.

Noting that welfare of the weaker sections should be the foremost concern of any government, he said that he will do everything possible to ensure the progress of the economically weak and backward sections among the minorities.

Many programmes for the welfare of the minorities have been launched including scholarships for meritorious students and creation of a separate fund of Rs 5 crore for Madrasas, the Chief Minister said.

Low interest loans are also being provided through minority welfare and Wakf Development Corporation to the minorities for employment generation and skill development schemes, he said, adding that the state government is also trying to increase the facilities enjoyed by Haj pilgrims.

PTI