In census 1991, the Buddhists population was 63,87,500 and it is 79,55,207 in census 2001.
The Prime Minister’s New 15 Point Programme for the welfare of minorities provides for enhanced opportunities for education, equitable share in income and employment, improving the conditions of living of minorities and ensuring communal harmony. Wherever possible, 15% of the targets and outlays are earmarked for minorities. Besides, National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation provides term loans, micro financing and educational loans to minority on concessional rates. Maulana Azad Education Foundation has educational schemes for minorities. Buddhists are one of the minorities notified under the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992 and benefits of welfare schemes for minorities are also available to them.
This information was given by Shri A. R. Antulay, Minister for Minority Affairs in a written reply to a question from Shri Kiren Rijiju in the Lok Sabha today.
TFK/SK
(Release ID :23327)