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Special housing scheme for Balmikis

Staff Correspondent

SHIMLA: The Himachal Pradesh Government on Monday launched a Balmiki Awas Yojna in Mandi district aimed at providing houses to the Balmiki community of the State. Claiming his government's commitment for the Balmikis whom he called a `minority', Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh has directed all DMs to conduct a survey of houseless families of the community and identify suitable plots for them.

Addressing a gathering in Mandi town he said the age-old tradition of carrying night soil on the head has been stopped in the State and a strong sewerage system developed in all major areas. He said his government has already fulfilled the promises made in the election manifesto of the Congress party. Mr. Virbhadra Singh said that the teachings of Maharishi Balmiki were more relevant in the present day context as be preached simple living with high moral character. Chief Minister said that people should learn from Balmiki's philosophy and work in close unison for peace and non-violence in the world. Mr. Singh announced Rs.7 lakh for the construction of Balmiki Bhavan at Mandi.

Earlier, the Chief Minister offered prayers at the local Balmiki temple.

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