A new Hindu cemetery has been officially commissioned in Vatulaulau, Ba, funded by the Multi-Ethnic Grant Program. At the ceremony, Charan Jeath Singh, the Minister for Sugar Industry and Multi-Ethnic Affairs, declared the project as a commitment to enhancing dignity, unity, and service at a grassroots level. This facility will serve 192 households across Vatulaulau Stages 1 and 2, Tarivo, Talaiya, Nasolo, and Waiwai.
The cemetery project was realized through a collaboration between the Ministry and the local community. The Ministry contributed over $14,000, with the committee covering the remaining costs. This is one of 202 community initiatives completed under the Grant Program in the last financial year. The program’s budget has been increased from $1.2 million to $2 million, reflecting its success in meeting community needs and rising demand.
Minister Singh emphasized the program’s adherence to high standards of transparency and integrity. Each application is thoroughly vetted, and funding is granted purely based on merit, leaving no room for bias. Shalendra Andrew, Principal Project Manager for the Vatulaulau Hindu Shamshaanbhoomi, expressed gratitude towards the Ministry, noting that local communities will now benefit from having burial facilities nearby.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Ministry to empower diverse communities in Fiji, similar to past projects that have improved access to essential services and infrastructure through the Multi-Ethnic Grant Program. Whether through funding new bridges for safe cemetery access or constructing protective fences around religious centers, these efforts reflect the Fijian government’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and social cohesion.
Overall, the projects supported by this program not only address immediate needs but also build resilient communities, nurturing hope for a harmonious and multicultural future in Fiji. This aligns with previous successful initiatives by the Ministry aiming to enhance community infrastructure and strengthen bonds across various ethnic groups, paving the way for a thriving and united society.
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