Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the ‘Pradhan Mantri Samajik Utthan and Rozgar Adharit Jankalyan’ (PM-SURAJ) national portal during an event organized by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
The launch ceremony showcased the government’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of underprivileged communities and extending credit support to one lakh entrepreneurs from disadvantaged sections.
Interacting with Beneficiaries
During the event, PM Modi personally interacted with beneficiaries from various states who have availed themselves of schemes like NAMASTE, VCF-SC, VCF-BC, and ASIIM. These schemes cater to individuals from Scheduled Castes, backward classes, and Safai Mitras, providing them with essential support for economic upliftment. The interaction highlighted the government’s dedication to placing the underprivileged at the forefront of development initiatives.
Distribution of Ayushman Health Cards and PPE Kits
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment distributed Ayushman health cards and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits to sewer and septic tank workers (Safai Mitras) under the National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) program. The Ayushman health card, issued under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), grants beneficiaries access to cashless healthcare services at empanelled hospitals. The PPE kits ensure the safety of frontline workers, providing them with necessary protection against health hazards and infections.
PM Modi’s Address
The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of reaching out to marginalized communities and ensuring their inclusion in the nation’s development process. He stressed the significance of initiatives like PM-SURAJ in providing financial assistance directly to beneficiaries, eliminating middlemen and commissions.
Empowering Marginalized Communities
PM Modi spoke about various initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized sectors, such as doubling assistance to the SC, ST, and OBC communities, increasing scholarships for youth, and promoting entrepreneurship through schemes like Mudra Yojna and Standup India Scheme. He mentioned that the government has spent nearly Rs. 1.60 lakh crore for the welfare of the SC community this year alone.
Focus on Education and Entrepreneurship
The Prime Minister underscored the commitment to education by citing increased scholarships for youth belonging to the marginalized section of society. He mentioned measures taken by his government, such as the reservation of 27% seats for the OBC in the all-India quota of medical seats, and support through the National Overseas Scholarship for underprivileged students pursuing Master and PhD degrees abroad. Additionally, he noted the heightened funding for National Fellowship, particularly for students pursuing PhDs in science-related subjects.
PM Modi also acknowledged the development of Panch Teerths associated with the life of Babasaheb Ambedkar and the constitutional status granted to the National Commission for Backward Classes.
He also cited the Mudra Yojna, which has disbursed financial assistance totaling around Rs. 30 lakh crore to the poor, including those from SC, ST, and OBC communities. He also mentioned the launch of the Ambedkar Social Innovation and Incubation Mission to foster innovation and self-reliance within marginalized communities.
