In a significant move aimed at uplifting marginalized communities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘Pradhan Mantri Samajik Utthan and Rozgar Adharit Jankalyan’ (PM-SURAJ) national portal and pledged credit support to one lakh entrepreneurs from disadvantaged sections. The launch event witnessed the distribution of Ayushman Health Cards and personal protective equipment (PPE) kits to Safai Mitras under the National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE), underscoring the government’s commitment to safeguarding frontline workers’ health and safety.
Addressing beneficiaries of various government schemes, including Scheduled Castes, Backward Classes, and sanitation workers, PM Modi reiterated the government’s dedication to prioritizing the underprivileged. He emphasized the importance of initiatives like PM-SURAJ in providing direct financial assistance to beneficiaries, thereby eliminating middlemen and commissions.
Highlighting the government’s efforts to provide essential amenities such as gas connections, bank accounts, and toilets to marginalized communities, PM Modi stressed the significance of ensuring their inclusion in the nation’s development process. He underscored initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized sectors, including doubling assistance to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes, increasing scholarships for youth, and promoting entrepreneurship through schemes like Mudra Yojna and Standup India Scheme.
PM Modi commended the government’s spending of nearly Rs. 1.60 lakh crore for the welfare of the Scheduled Caste community this year alone, signaling a departure from alleged scams associated with significant funds during previous administrations. He highlighted measures such as increased scholarships for youth from marginalized sections, reservation of seats for Other Backward Classes in medical colleges, and enhanced funding for National Fellowships in science-related subjects.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of innovation and self-reliance within marginalized communities, citing initiatives such as the Ambedkar Social Innovation and Incubation Mission. He reassured intensified development and respect for the deprived class in the coming years, underscoring the government’s commitment to realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat.
The program, attended by approximately 300,000 beneficiaries from disadvantaged groups across the country, served as a platform to reaffirm the government’s dedication to the welfare and empowerment of marginalized communities. As India strives towards inclusive growth and development, initiatives like PM-SURAJ are poised to play a pivotal role in bridging socio-economic disparities and fostering a more equitable society.
Sources By Agencies