Recently in news as the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment launched the PM-AJAY portal and AJAY mobile app to digitise the implementation of the scheme. This topic is important for aspirants preparing through IAS coaching in Hyderabad, UPSC online coaching, and UPSC coaching in Hyderabad.
PM-AJAY Scheme
• PM-AJAY (Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana) was launched in FY 2021–22 as a comprehensive programme for the socio-economic upliftment of Scheduled Castes (SCs).
• It merged three earlier schemes:
• PM Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY).
• Special Central Assistance to SCSP.
• Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojana (BJRCY).
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment (MoSJE).
Eligibility
• SC persons below the poverty line are eligible for income generation and skill development programmes.
• Villages with 50% or more SC population are eligible for infrastructure grants and development assistance.
Key Components
Adarsh Gram Development
• Transforms SC-majority villages into model villages with improved infrastructure and services.
Socio-Economic Projects
• Provides grants for livelihood generation projects, skill centres, and financial support for self-employment.
Hostel Construction
• Supports construction of hostels in:
• Higher educational institutions ranked under NIRF.
• Government-funded schools and colleges.
Infrastructure Creation
• Development of roads, schools, drinking water facilities, and health centres in SC-dominated villages.
PM-AJAY Portal and AJAY Mobile App
• Introduced to digitise implementation and monitoring of the scheme.
• Improves transparency, accountability, and real time tracking of projects.
• Facilitates efficient fund utilisation and grievance redressal.
• Enhances accessibility for beneficiaries and administrators.
Significance
• Addresses poverty reduction and socio-economic inequality among Scheduled Castes.
• Promotes skill development and livelihood opportunities for SC youth.
• Improves educational access through hostel infrastructure.
• Strengthens rural infrastructure and inclusive development.
• Supports digital governance and transparent welfare delivery.
Constitutional and Policy Context
• Article 46 directs the State to promote educational and economic interests of Scheduled Castes and weaker sections.
• Aligned with the goals of social justice, inclusive growth, and empowerment under the Constitution.
• Supports India’s broader objectives of reducing social disparities and promoting equitable development.
Students preparing through Hyderabad IAS coaching, IAS coaching, and civils coaching in Hyderabad should focus on welfare schemes for vulnerable sections, constitutional provisions, and digital governance initiatives for UPSC preparation.
Conclusion
PM-AJAY is a holistic scheme aimed at empowering Scheduled Castes through infrastructure development, education, livelihood support, and digital governance. Its integrated and technology-driven approach strengthens social justice and inclusive growth in India.
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