President Dr. Arif Alvi says steps are being taken to provide equal opportunities to minorities and protect their rights as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan.

Talking to a delegation of National Minorities Commission, led by Chairman Chela Ram Kewlani in Islamabad on Tuesday, he said minorities are playing an active role in the development of the country.

The President said the government is making serious efforts to ensure their inclusion in the political and economic systems of the country.

He said the government is taking measures for the protection and maintenance of all worship places of minorities, including the churches, shrines, temples and gurdawaras.

He said in addition to general merit, the government has allocated five percent job quota for minorities and is providing scholarships and financial assistance to students belonging to minority groups.

The President said the youth and women from minority groups could avail business loans on easy terms and conditions under the Prime Minister's Kamyab Jawan Program. 

The delegation apprised the President about their issues and the President assured them of taking all possible steps to address their problems.