HYDERABAD: After two hours of discussions with representatives of backward classes as a pre-budget exercise, Backward Classes' Welfare Minister D. Srinivas announced here on Monday that none of the backward classes would be removed from the list of 93 sub-castes eligible for reservations.

Speaking to reporters later, clarified that G.O. No. 23 issued by the Rajasekhara Reddy Government was aimed at reviewing the socio-economic conditions of the BCs, including those seeking inclusion in the list.

"Such an order was also issued during the Telugu Desam regime. It's quite normal and nobody should assign it any special importance to it," he noted.

The Minister, however, clarified that inclusion of any backward community in the list was the prerogative of the State BC Commission.

Mr. Srinivas said the budget allocation for BC welfare would be increased in the forthcoming budget. The lending system for BCs "had collapsed" and this was due to non-repayment of the loans taken through various federations and the BC Financial Corporation.

The National BC Corporation refused to extend fresh loans to the one at state level as a result. However, he indicated that the budget for the State Corporation would be increased.

At the meeting, R. Krishnaiah of the BC Welfare Association and other leaders sought an allotment of Rs. 3,000 crores for BCs' welfare, including Rs. 180 crores for scholarships and Rs. 90 crores towards tuition fee reimbursement.

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