*A convivial Iftar gathering in Gajuwaka… festivities marked by warmth and camaraderie with the Muslim community* ▪️*A renewed direction for minority welfare under Chandrababu’s leadership… the coalition government stands by every section* *— _TDP State President Sri Palla Srinivasa Rao_*

Visakhapatnam, March 20:* An Iftar gathering, organised under the aegis of TDP State President and Gajuwaka MLA Sri Palla Srinivasa Rao at the Gajuwaka Club (near Jaggu Junction), unfolded in a spirited and congenial atmosphere on Thursday evening. Nearly 1,000 members of the Muslim community participated, coming together in a display of unity and shared reverence to mark the holy occasion.

Prior to the Iftar, attendees observed prayers as part of their day-long fast and engaged in the recitation of the Quran. Following sunset, the fast was traditionally broken with dates and water, after which special prayers were offered. The gathering subsequently evolved into an exchange of greetings, reflecting a sense of fraternity and mutual goodwill.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Srinivasa Rao extended his greetings on the occasion of the holy month of Ramzan. He underscored that the TDP government has consistently prioritised the welfare and economic empowerment of minorities as a central objective of its governance.

*Distinct legacy of TDP in minority welfare*

Mr. Srinivasa Rao asserted that, since its inception in 1983, the TDP has established a distinct record in advancing the welfare of Muslim minorities, with initiatives unparalleled elsewhere in the country. He cited measures such as the establishment of the Muslim Minority Finance Corporation, promotion of the Urdu language, setting up of an Urdu University, construction of Haj Houses, and provision of subsidies for the Haj pilgrimage. He further noted that the party has ensured representation of minority leaders in legislative bodies, enabling their voices to be heard in policymaking.

*Welfare support for minorities under the coalition government*

Highlighting the coalition government’s commitment to fulfilling its electoral promises, Mr. Srinivasa Rao said substantial allocations have been made towards minority welfare. Within a span of just 19 months, ₹180 crore has been disbursed to Imams and Muezzins, he said. Funds have also been earmarked for the development of mosques and burial grounds, while loans amounting to ₹300 crore are being extended through the National Minority Development Corporation. He added that financial assistance has been provided for the Rottela Panduga festival in Nellore.

He further stated that a dedicated corporation with an outlay of ₹100 crore has been established for the Noor Basha and Dudekula communities. Financial assistance of ₹41.37 crore has been extended to 27,000 minority auto drivers. Additionally, the monetary component of the Abul Kalam Azad Awards has been enhanced in recognition of contributions to the promotion of the Urdu language.Substantial budgetary allocations… priority across sectors*Detailing fiscal commitments, Mr. Srinivasa Rao said ₹5,434 crore has been allocated for minority welfare in 2025–26, with ₹6,090 crore earmarked for 2026–27. He elaborated that dedicated funding has been provided under the Minority Sub-Plan for self-employment schemes, Haj pilgrimage support, Urdu Academy initiatives, educational advancement, and coaching programmes. Measures such as financial assistance to Haj pilgrims and the establishment of an embarkation point in Vijayawada have also been undertaken.

He noted that financial assistance has been extended to lakhs of minority students under the ‘Thalliki Vandanam’ scheme, and that the process of appointing Imams as Khazis has been initiated.

Betrayal of minorities under Jagan’s regimeMr. Srinivasa Rao launched a sharp critique of the previous YSRCP government, alleging that minority welfare schemes had come to a standstill during its tenure. He accused the administration of discontinuing 11 schemes introduced by the TDP and neglecting the development of Shadi Khanas, mosques, and Eidgahs. He further alleged inadequate financial support for Imams and Muezzins, inaction on encroachments of Waqf lands, and failure to respond effectively to incidents involving attacks on Muslims, thereby compromising the safety and security of minority communities.

Empowerment of minorities as the core objective*Reiterating the government’s commitment, Mr. Srinivasa Rao said that under the leadership of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, the coalition government is steadfastly working towards the economic, social, and educational advancement of minorities. He emphasised that efforts are being directed towards ensuring that every Muslim family achieves progress and self-reliance.

The event witnessed the participation of public representatives, religious leaders from the Muslim community, party functionaries, and a large number of local residents.