MANGALURU:

(CDP), which was founded with Rs 50 crore government sanction in 2011, wilsoon be upgraded as Christian Development Corporation (CDC), said chief whip of government in

Ivan D’Souza.

He told reporters that chief minister

has already agreed to upgrade CDP into CDC. The CM also has promised the community to sanction Rs 500 crore to the new CDC. “The government has sanctioned Rs 175 crore in 2017-18 for the welfare of Christian community through minority department and

Development Corporation.

Funds have been distributed among Christian beneficiaries to build houses, start self-employment, purchase of land, vehicles and for other welfare schemes. However, there are more Christian beneficiaries, who are still waiting for government scheme benefits to the tune of Rs 300 crore. Hence, a request has been made with the CM to sanction Rs 500 crore exclusively for the welfare of Christian community in the Budget of 2018-19. The CM has agreed to announce the setting up of CDC and also sanction funds to the tune of Rs 500 crore to it in the next Budget,” Ivan said.

There are plans to open IAS/IPS Training Centres for candidates from Christian community, who appear for civil service examinations in the state. Similarly, plans are afoot to commence skill development centres for the community in the state, Ivan said.

In 2017-18, the government has reserved Rs 2,007.50 crore for the welfare of minority communities in the state. Out of Rs 2,007.50 crore, the government has spent nearly Rs 800 crore for the development of infrastructure in minority colonies. Christians dominate 4% of the population in Karnataka. Hence, the government has been requested to sanction funds in the Budget based on the population.