Study on status of Parsis

As a result of my efforts the National Commission for Minorities has sanctioned Rs 4,42,500 for a research study titled "The socioeconomic and educational status of Parsi community in India.” The Tata Institute of Social Sciences will carry out the study and submit its report by April 2009. Those who have publications of their anjuman pertaining to the topic or wish to contribute their views to strengthen the study should forward the same to me at the earliest.

As in the past, I have also accepted a three-month internship to study "The training and employment opportunities for Parsi Zoroastrians in the Parsi establishments after SSC/HSC, and compilation of distance education programs for continuing higher education in the state of Maharashtra,” since 90 percent of Parsis reside in this state.

I am continuing my efforts to reach out to Parsis settled in different parts of India, by visiting them or by correspondence, to note their grievances/complaints or to speak about the Prime Minister’s 15-point program and the 11th Five Year Plan document which have provided a number of benefits to minorities which Parsis have not taken full advantage of. I am also working on our representation on the State Minorities Commission and a couple of nominations in Parliament. If readers have any names to suggest please do convey the same to me in duplicate, along with their complete bio data.

Dr MEHROO D. BENGALEE

Member, National Commission for Minorities

md.bengalee@nic.in