Historic Budget Allocation Boosts Ministry of Minority Affairs

The budgetary allocation for the Ministry of Minority Affairs has been increased to Rs 3,183.24 crore for 2024-25. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the first budget of Prime Minister Modi-led government's third term, with significant funds earmarked for educational empowerment and key minority programs.

The budgetary allocation for the Ministry of Minority Affairs has surged by Rs 574.31 crore to Rs 3,183.24 crore for the fiscal year 2024-25, up from the revised estimate of Rs 2,608.93 crore in 2023-24.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Budget for 2024-25, marking her seventh consecutive presentation and surpassing the record of former Prime Minister Morarji Desai. This is the first budget of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's third term.

The initial allocation for the ministry was Rs 3,097.60 crore in 2023-24, but the revised estimate stood at Rs 2,608.93 crore, per official documents.

The new budget estimate for the Ministry of Minority Affairs is Rs 3,183.24 crore, with Rs 1,575.72 crore earmarked for educational empowerment.

In particular, Rs 326.16 crore has been allocated for Pre-Matric Scholarship for Minorities, and Rs 1,145.38 crore for Post-Matric Scholarship for Minorities.

A total provision of Rs 2,120.72 crore has been made for the major schemes and projects of the ministry.

The 'Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram,' one of the ministry's flagship programs, has received an allocation of Rs 910.90 crore.

Additionally, Rs 800 crore has been earmarked for equity contribution to the National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation.

(With inputs from agencies.)