Mangaluru: Social Welfare Minister H Anjaneya said that a special package of Rs 10 crore has been announced for the development of Koraga community.

“The package is announced for the overall development of Koraga community and to provide basic facilities to their colonies. Rs 25000 per family will be distributed for the renovation of their houses. A total of Rs 1 crore is distributed to 200 families from Dakshina Kannada and 200 from Udupi,” he said.

He further said that a community hall will be built at the cost of 12 lakh at Kerekaadu Koraga colony. Stipend of Rs 2500 per month will be given to unemployed educated Koraga community students for two years. Free bus passes will be provided for students.

“As per 2001 census, the population of Koraga community was 6327, but in the 2011 census it came down to 4858. This is not a good development. I’ve issued an order to Karnataka State Tribal Research Institute to find the reason behind it,” he added.

He continued saying that, “According to The Tribal Forest Rights Act, the application submitted by any member of Koraga community for a title deed will not be rejected. There is no last date for the submission of application. Rs 4.50 crore is allotted to provide nutritious food to the community in DK.”

He also said that if any officials misuse the amount, then the government will take strict action against them.

Mangaluru North MLA B.A. Mohiuddin Bava, Deputy Commissioner A B Ibrahim were present.