The Parv showcased over 70 exquisite handicraft and handloom products from various States made by 162 artisans belonging to various minority communities.

During the inaugural event, the Ministry’s remarkable achievements were disseminated in terms of releasing a Coffee Table Book and the Credit Plan of NMDFC was also released. During the event, loan sanction letters and commendation medals were presented to beneficiaries.

The rich cultural heritage of various communities was displayed during the event through performances of Singhi Chham (Lion Dance), Manipuri Dance, Bhangra, and others, which not only entertained but also educated the audience about the diverse cultural tapestry of India.

According to a survey conducted during the event, 78% of the respondents reported having a positive or excellent experience at the Parv, while approximately 97% expressed their interest in participating in such future events conducted by the Ministry.

National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation (NMDFC)

National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation (NMDFC) is a Government Corporation under section 8 of the Companies Act 2013, under the administrative control of Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India. The Corporation has been set up to promote Socio-Economic development of Backward Sections amongst the Minority Communities through the State Channelizing Agencies (SCAs) nominated by the respective State Governments / UT Administration and Canara Bank, preference being given to the occupational group and women. Recently, Union Bank of India, Indian Bank & Punjab Gramin Bank have also signed MoU for implementation of NMDFC schemes on refinance mode.

During F.Y. 2023-24, NMDFC released concessional credit to the tune of Rs. 765.45 crore covering over 1.84 lakh beneficiaries. Further, since inception, NMDFC has disbursed more than Rs. 9,228.19 crore covering over 24.84 lakh beneficiaries out of which more than 85% beneficiaries are women.

NMDFC has launched MILAN (Minority Loan Accounting Software for NMDFC) app to digitize loan accounting processes between applicants, SCAs & NMDFC, including integration of MIS portal of NMDFC on which data of 14.57 lakh beneficiaries is available. Android and IOS version of MILAN Mobile app has also been launched.

Haj Pilgrimage 2024

Government of India, with active support and cooperation from the people and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has developed a robust, effective, and efficient system of pilgrimage management over the years. During Haj 2024, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Civil Aviation, along with the Haj Committee of India, and other stakeholders, collaborated seamlessly to ensure the success of the operations.

Highlights of Haj 2024 are as follows:

1. The 'Haj Suvidha App' was launched to leverage information technology for enhancing the pilgrimage experience. The app provides an administrative interface for deputationists and Khadim-ul-Hujjaj, assists in real-time monitoring and emergency response, and ensures better coordination and accountability. Pilgrims can use the app to access training content,

accommodation and flight details, baggage information, an emergency helpline (SOS), grievance redressal, feedback, language translation, and miscellaneous information related to the pilgrimage. Over 9,000 grievances and more than 2,000 SOS cases were resolved this year.

2. Over 4,557 female pilgrims, undertook the pilgrimage without a Mehram (Ladies Without Mehram), marking the highest number to date.
3. 264 admin deputationists, 356 medical deputationists, 1500 seasonal staff, and 641 Khadim-ul-Hujjaj were deployed to serve the pilgrims. The number of KuH and deputationists have been increased substantially to improve the overall Haj experience of Indian pilgrims.
4. Pilgrims also were catered by 564 Haj Group Organizers.
5. The medical mission has been particularly impactful, with 3,74,613 cases treated, 3,51,473 OPD cases managed, and 19,962 mobile visits conducted. Additionally, in-treatment care to 3,178 pilgrims was provided.
6. Medical mission infrastructure in Saudi Arabia included 14 branch dispensaries and 3 hospitals in Makkah, and 2 branch dispensaries and 1 hospital in Madinah, 24 ambulances were available round the clock to transport pilgrims, along with dedicated facilities for female pilgrims and those without a Mehram. A special task force was deployed for high-risk groups and single pilgrims.

Jiyo Parsi Scheme

Jiyo Parsi is a unique Central Sector Scheme for arresting the population decline of the Parsi community. The scheme was launched in 2013-14. The objective of the scheme is to reverse the declining trend of Parsi population by adopting a scientific protocol and structured interventions, stabilize their population and increase the population of Parsis in India.

The scheme has the following three components:

1. Medical Assistance: to provide financial assistance to deal with fertility issues.
2. Health of the Community: to provide financial assistance to Parsi couples to take care of their dependent elderly family members and children.
3. Advocacy: for conducing counselling and outreach activities among the Parsi community.

The scheme has been revised in February, 2024 and the revised guidelines are available on Ministry’s website.

The Ministry has launched a portal for Parsi couples seeking financial assistance under medical component. The portal provides convenience and access for beneficiaries to apply for benefits and track their applications. The portal enables swift decision-making. The portal may be accessed through the Ministry’s website.

Waqf

  Ministry of Minority Affairs introduced Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 on

08.08.2024 in Lok Sabha. Subsequently, the Bill has been referred to a Joint Committee of Parliament (JPC).  The mandate of the JPC is to examine the Bill and make a  report on the bill to the Parliament by the last day of the Budget  session.