29-04-2025
Tamil Nadu government to support pilgrimage of Buddhists, Jains, Sikhs
The Tamil Nadu government would support the pilgrimage of Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs and would extend them subsidy similar to those offered to Muslims and Christians, Minister for Minorities Welfare S.M. Nasar announced in the Assembly on Tuesday.
During his reply to the debate on the demand for grants for Backward Classes, Most Backward Classes and Minorities Welfare Department for 2025-25, Mr. Nasar said a subsidy of ₹10,000 each would be extended to 120 individuals a year.
Of the 120, 50 would be Buddhists, 50 would be Jains and 20 would be Sikhs, Mr. Nasar said. He also announced that the State government would extend subsidy to support Buddhist pilgrimage to Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur. About 150 pilgrims to get a subsidy of ₹5,000 each every year.
Mr. Nasar also announced that the State government would formulate a new programme to offer financial assistance to support the higher education of 10 students from the minority communities.
The Minister announced that an additional Muslim Women Aid Society would be set up in Chennai, Tirunelveli, Karur and Sivaganga districts. A Christian Women Aid Society would be set up in Tirunelveli, Villupuram and Thanjavur districts, he said.
