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Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JB)

Udupi, Oct 22: MLA Raghupathi Bhat distributed bonds under Bhagyalakshmi scheme to 76 beneficiaries of the year 2017 – 18. He also distributed natural disaster relief fund to 63 beneficiaries at Udupi taluk panchayat meeting hall, here on Monday, October 21.

The MLA blamed the earlier government’s ‘lack of interest’ as the reason for the delay in distributing Bhagyalakshmi scheme bonds.

“Under this programme, the government will deposit Rs 19,300 to the bank account and beneficiaries will get Rs 1 lac, when the girl child turns 18-years-old. This money will aid the girl child’s higher education like medical, engineering. Parents should ensure their child’s future is secure. Parents should start depositing money right after the birth of a child or invest in LIC to secure life and for a better future,” the MLA advised.

“Under the Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation, the government will grant Rs 50,000 to repair houses that have sustained 25 per cent damages. Rs 5 lac will be distributed for the reconstruction of completely damaged houses. Under the National Disaster Response Force guidelines, Rs 95,100 is allotted as immediate relief fund. The government will release Rs 1 lac for houses that are damaged above 25 per cent. Those who have to stay in rented accommodation, due to house damage, will receive Rs 5,000 for 10 months. If a family wants to construct shed as temporary rehabilitation will get Rs 50,000,” he said.

A total of 64 beneficiaries received cheques under natural disaster relief fund.

Twelve beneficiaries received cheques for 75% and above house damages, 16 beneficiaries received relief funds for damages that range from 25% - 75% and 36 beneficiaries were compensated for 25% house damages.

Nithu Gururaj, president, taluk panchayat, Udupi, Bhujanga Shetty, vice president, Keshava Shettigar, EO, Sudhakar Shetty Mairmady, Sheela K Shetty, vice president zilla panchayat, Udupi, Sunitha Shetty and others were present.