365Telugu.com online news,December 28th,2024: The Ministry of Minority Affairs, established in 2006 after being carved out from the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, focuses on policy formulation, coordination, and oversight of developmental programs for minority communities.
To safeguard the rights of minorities, the National Commission for Minorities (NCM) was set up under the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992. Initially, five religious communities – Buddhists, Christians, Muslims, Parsis, and Sikhs – were designated as minorities, with the Jains being added to this list in 2014.
Here’s a look at the key accomplishments of the Ministry in 2024:
As part of its 100-day action plan, the Ministry organized the ‘Lok Samvardhan Parv’ from July 16-31, 2024, at Dilli Haat, INA, New Delhi. This event provided a platform for 162 artisans from minority communities across India to showcase over 70 exquisite handicraft and handloom products, highlighting their rich cultural heritage.
Daily workshops conducted during the event focused on marketing, export, online business, GST, and sales, with support from the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH). Notable institutions like the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) and the National Institute of Design (NID) also participated, offering support to artisans.
The event’s highlights included the release of a Coffee Table Book, a Credit Plan by the National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation (NMDFC), and cultural performances like Singhi Chham, Manipuri Dance, and Bhangra. According to a survey, 78% of visitors reported a positive experience, while 97% expressed interest in attending similar future events.
The NMDFC focuses on the socio-economic development of minorities through concessional credit programs.
- 2023-24 Highlights:
- Rs. 765.45 crore disbursed, benefiting over 1.84 lakh individuals, with over 85% of them being women.
- Total disbursed since inception: Rs. 9,228.19 crore, covering 24.84 lakh beneficiaries.
- Innovations:
- Launched the MILAN app to digitize loan processes and track data for over 14.57 lakh beneficiaries.
- Mobile app versions for Android and iOS are now available.
The Ministry successfully managed the Haj operations in collaboration with various stakeholders, ensuring a seamless experience for pilgrims.
Key Achievements:
- Launch of the Haj Suvidha App for real-time monitoring, emergency response, and providing essential pilgrimage information.
- Record-breaking participation of 4,557 female pilgrims without a Mehram.
- Comprehensive medical infrastructure, treating over 3.74 lakh cases, including OPD visits, in-treatment care, and mobile medical services.
This unique scheme, launched in 2013-14, aims to arrest the population decline of the Parsi community through medical, financial, and advocacy support.
- Revised guidelines introduced in 2024.
- A dedicated portal for Parsi couples seeking medical assistance has been launched, offering convenience and transparency.
The Ministry introduced the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 in the Lok Sabha on August 8, 2024. The Bill has been referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for examination, with a report expected by the end of the Budget Session.
The Ministry of Minority Affairs continues to work towards empowering minority communities, promoting cultural heritage, and safeguarding their rights through innovative programs and inclusive policies.