Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh Minister for Education and IT, Nara Lokesh, held a meeting with Roman Catholic bishops who visited Amaravati to discuss several issues related to church lands and educational institutions. Bishops and chancellors from mission centres in Kadapa, Kurnool, Nellore, Guntur, Vijayawada, Khammam and Eluru participated in the meeting and shared their concerns with the minister.
During the interaction, the bishops explained that many churches under their jurisdiction have been facing land-related issues for nearly three decades. They informed the minister about the difficulties being experienced in resolving these disputes and requested the state government’s support in addressing the long-pending problems. The bishops said that resolving these issues would help the church institutions continue their social and educational services without obstacles.
The delegation also briefed Lokesh about the educational institutions being run under the Roman Catholic Church across different regions. They explained that these institutions have been serving thousands of students and playing an important role in providing quality education. The bishops invited the minister to visit some of these schools and colleges to understand their activities and contributions to society.
They also told Lokesh that the church institutions are ready to work closely with the government in carrying out social service activities. According to the bishops, cooperation between the government and church-run institutions could help expand welfare programmes, education initiatives and community support efforts in several parts of the state.
Responding to their concerns, Minister Nara Lokesh assured the delegation that he would examine the issues raised by them and make efforts to find solutions. He said the government is committed to supporting institutions that contribute to education and social development. Lokesh also said that he would soon visit the educational institutions run by the Roman Catholic Church to understand their functioning and discuss ways to strengthen cooperation with the government.
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