Anglo-Indians’ contribution vital in nation building: Naqvi

New Delhi, Jan 13 (IANS) Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Friday said that despite its small headcount, the Anglo-Indian community has played a vital role in nation building.

Naqvi's remarks came at a meeting of the Anglo-Indian community here.

Urging the community to avail benefits of various welfare schemes meant for minorities, he said that the Indian Constitution is the only "holy book" of the Narendra Modi government and inclusive growth its commitment.

"The Anglo-Indian community can avail benefits of various welfare schemes meant for minorities. The community should take maximum benefits from the schemes related to scholarships and skill development," Naqvi said.

He said that all the benefits available to Christians are also available to the Anglo-Indian community.

"Under Multi-sectoral Development Programme (MsDP) scheme, funds are being provided for creating infrastructure in the minority concentration blocks. Hence, assets created under the MsDP can be utilised by all sections of the society, including the Anglo-Indian community," he added.

Naqvi further said that the Ministry of Minority Affairs is going to establish five world class educational institutions and the Anglo-Indian community will also benefit from this decision.

Nominated Anglo-Indian MPs Prof Richard Hay and George Baker were also present in the meeting, which was also attended by several Anglo-Indian nominated members of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh assemblies.

Representatives of the Anglo-Indian community appreciated the minority ministry's initiative to convene a meeting of the community to seek their suggestions about the their welfare.