Social Justice and Empowerment Budget 2024-2025 Sees 37% Increase

The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment has been allocated Rs 13,539 crore in the 2024-2025 budget, a 37% increase from the previous year. The funds will enhance welfare programmes for marginalised communities, infrastructure for social services, and various educational and economic initiatives. Significant allocations have been made for Scheduled Castes and other vulnerable groups.

The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment has received Rs 13,539 crore in the 2024-2025 budget, marking a 37% rise from last year's Rs 9,853.32 crore allocation. This boost aims at improving welfare programmes for marginalized communities and social service infrastructure.

Key allocations include Rs 9,549.98 crore for the 'Umbrella Scheme for Development of Scheduled Castes,' up from Rs 6,780 crore the previous year. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized a 'saturation approach' to ensure comprehensive social justice through various programmes, including education and health, during her budget presentation in Parliament.

Other significant allocations are Rs 2,150 crore for the 'Umbrella Programme for Development of Other Vulnerable Groups,' Rs 314 crore for the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction, and Rs 145.80 crore for central administration expenses. The budget also supports economic assistance and skill development initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kushalta Sampann Hitgrahi Yojana and the Venture Capital Fund for SCs and OBCs.