Record Spending Boosts Social Welfare Initiatives

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment announced a record expenditure of Rs 11,810.82 crore in 2025-26, a 14% increase from the previous year. The funds supported welfare schemes for Scheduled Castes, Other Backwards Classes, drug demand reduction, sanitation workers, senior citizens, transgender persons, and beggars.

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment reported a significant milestone in public spending, having allocated an unprecedented Rs 11,810.82 crore for social welfare in 2025-26. This figure marks a 14% increase compared to the prior fiscal year.

According to officials, this allocation emphasize the government's dedication to ensuring prompt and effective use of funds. Key beneficiaries include Scheduled Castes and Other Backwards Classes, reflecting a strategic focus on these communities.

The department also prioritized programs addressing issues such as drug demand reduction, support for sanitation workers, and aid for senior citizens, transgender persons, and individuals involved in begging.

(With inputs from agencies.)