Guwahati, Feb 8: Assam’s Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Pijush Hazarika, has urged the Central Advisory Committee (CAC) of Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyudaya Yojana (PM-AJAY) to increase the hostel component funding for Assam and the Northeast.
Speaking at the first CAC meeting at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi, Hazarika emphasized the need for greater financial support, citing the region’s unique challenges.
“Compared to other parts of the country, the Northeast requires more assistance under the hostel component,” Hazarika also said, requesting an increase from the current ₹20 lakh allocation. He reaffirmed Assam’s commitment to improving the lives of Scheduled Caste (SC) communities through the PM-AJAY scheme.
The day-long meeting, chaired by Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar, was attended by CAC members, state ministers, and senior officials from various ministries.
Highlighting the government’s focus on inclusive development, Dr. Kumar emphasized that PM-AJAY plays a crucial role in bridging socio-economic disparities. “Through focused interventions and collaborative efforts, we are working towards empowering SC individuals and promoting holistic growth,” he said.
Launched in 2021-22 under the visionary leadership of HPM Shri @narendramodi Ji, PM-AJAY aims to bring transformative socio-economic upliftment to the Scheduled Caste communities across India through various initiatives in education, poverty eradication and skill development.
The CAC’s mandate includes monitoring implementation, addressing policy concerns, and assessing the scheme’s socio-economic impact. In a separate meeting with Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar, Hazarika proposed the establishment of India’s first Divyang University in Assam.
He highlighted that a dedicated institution would play a pivotal role in empowering Divyangjans (persons with disabilities) through education, skill development, and employment opportunities.
“Today, I had the privilege of meeting Hon’ble Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment, @Drvirendrakum13 Ji, in New Delhi. During our meeting, I requested the Central Government, led by our visionary leader, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji, through the Hon’ble Minister, to consider establishing India’s first Divyang University in Assam.
On behalf of the Govt. of Assam, under the leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. @himantabiswa Dangoriya, I conveyed that our Govt. believe that this dedicated institution will empower Divyangjans through education, skill development and empowerment, making a significant contribution to nation-building and societal progress. The Union Minister gave a patient hearing to our request,” Minister Hazarika posted on X.
