HYDERABADDeputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka said that the State government is committed to the overall development of minorities, noting that substantial funds have been allocated in the Budget for this purpose.At a high-level review meeting held at the Secretariat in Hyderabad on Thursday, the Deputy Chief Minister reviewed the progress of minority welfare schemes and development works. The meeting was attended by Minority Welfare Minister Azharuddin and chairpersons of minority corporations.He announced that large-scale mushairas, showcasing Urdu culture, will be organised not only in Hyderabad but also in all district headquarters as part of the Urdu Academy’s golden jubilee celebrations. Officials were directed to make necessary arrangements for the main event at LB Stadium in Hyderabad.Mr. Vikramarka said that minority residential schools being constructed across Telangana would serve as a benchmark for the country, with modern infrastructure. Officials informed that 20 schools have been completed and are ready for inauguration, while another 17 are under construction. He instructed officials to expedite the pending works, prepare a fixed timeline, and ensure close monitoring to complete all projects at the earliest.The Deputy Chief Minister also directed officials to take legal measures to protect Waqf and other minority lands from encroachment. He emphasised the need to prioritise the construction of compound walls around minority burial grounds and asked officials to prepare a comprehensive action plan. District Collectors would be instructed to identify and allocate land for burial grounds in areas with a significant Muslim population, he said.Under the Rajiv Yuva Vikasam scheme, financial assistance would be provided to minority youth to support self-employment and promote economic independence. Officials were asked to prepare a detailed implementation plan.He further announced an allocation of ₹50 crore for the welfare of Christian minorities, aimed at supporting youth through self-employment initiatives.During the meeting, Mr. Azharuddin invited the Deputy Chief Minister to attend a special programme on the ninth day of the upcoming Moharram celebrations in Hyderabad, to which Mr. Vikramarka responded positively. Published - June 18, 2026 08:30 pm IST