Hyderabad: A recent ordinance by the Telangana government offers 100% subsidized financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh to eligible minority members, aiming to uplift their economic standing. This initiative, akin to support provided to marginalized classes, marks a significant step toward enhancing economic independence for minority communities. The Chief Minister, K. Chandrasekhar Rao, endorsed this decision on July 23, with rules and guidelines subsequently released for beneficiary selection and implementation.
Distribution of cheques
Starting from August 16, the distribution of financial aid checks will commence, following the introduction of the Rs 1 lakh financial assistance program for minorities. An additional Rs 130 crore has been allocated, bringing the total funds to Rs 400 crore, alongside the existing Rs 270 crore. Distribution of aid will be determined by the population proportion in each constituency.
Eligibility criteria
Eligibility criteria for the scheme include individuals aged 21 to 55 years, with a yearly income not exceeding Rs 1.5 lakh in rural areas and Rs 2 lakh in urban areas. Christian applicants need to submit new applications for consideration by the Telangana State Christian Minorities Finance Corporation. Notably, only one family member from each household will receive the grant.
Muslim minorities
Regarding other minorities like Muslims, information from the Telangana Minorities Finance Corporation sources indicates that the website for new applications is currently closed.
The scheme’s guidelines dictate that applications submitted during the fiscal year 2022-23, still awaiting approval, will be reviewed for the 100% direct subsidy in the current fiscal year, ensuring that those eligible can benefit from this financial aid initiative.
The applications that were submitted in December 2022 and January 2023, when the website was open for submissions, will undergo a review in the 2023-24 period.
Applications submitted during the fiscal year 2022-23 that are still pending will be considered for approval in 2023-24, granting 100% direct subsidies of Rs 1 lakh per eligible recipient. The Telangana State Minorities Finance Corporation will administer this process.
Those who had submitted applications during December 22 and January 23 can approach Telangana minorities finance corporation office located at Hajj house Nampally along with the copy of application submitted to check the status of their application.
