The Government is implementing a comprehensive range of welfare schemes for the educational advancement, socio-economic empowerment, livelihood promotion and protection of Scheduled Caste communities across the country.

During the financial years 2021-22 to 2025-26, funds were allocated for major initiatives including the Post-Matric Scholarship for SC Students, National Fellowship for SC Students, National Overseas Scholarship, Top Class Education, Free Coaching, Pre-Matric Scholarship, Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY), Scheme of Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas (SHRESHTA), Venture Capital Fund for SCs and skill-development programmes.

The implementation and utilisation of funds under various Scheduled Caste welfare schemes are undertaken in coordination with the respective States and Union Territories. Release of funds is linked to the receipt of complete proposals, submission of Utilisation Certificates, onboarding onto SNA-SPARSH wherever applicable, adherence to scheme guidelines and compliance with the prescribed financial norms.

To improve expenditure and strengthen accountability, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment conducts regular internal reviews of the schemes. Third-party evaluations and social audits are also undertaken to assess implementation and enhance the effectiveness of programme delivery.

Scholarship assistance is largely disbursed through the Direct Benefit Transfer mode to facilitate faster and more transparent transfer of benefits directly into the bank accounts of eligible students. This mechanism also supports accurate beneficiary targeting and reduces delays in disbursement.

The Ministry regularly monitors scheme implementation through national-level Chintan Shivirs, regional meetings, national conferences and consultations with stakeholders and officials from States and Union Territories.

Monthly and quarterly expenditure targets are reviewed to identify implementation gaps and facilitate timely corrective measures. Awareness and outreach initiatives are also undertaken through advertisements in national and regional newspapers, social media campaigns and regular follow-up with States and Union Territories.

These efforts are aimed at increasing awareness among eligible beneficiaries, improving the submission of proposals and ensuring timely utilisation of allocated funds.

Through strengthened monitoring, digital fund-management systems, direct transfer of benefits, regular evaluation and closer coordination with implementing authorities, the Government remains committed to ensuring that Scheduled Caste welfare schemes reach eligible beneficiaries effectively.

The initiatives seek to advance education, dignity, livelihood security and socio-economic empowerment among Scheduled Caste communities across the country.

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PR-89 TAR/KV/GA/RK