PM-AJAY Drives Inclusive Development for Scheduled Castes
Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment · Social issues · Posted 16 OCT 2026 6:26PM
What happened
The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment highlighted progress under the Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY), noting that 18,093 villages have been declared Adarsh Grams and approximately Rs 1,730 crore has been released under Grants-in-Aid from FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26.
Why it matters for UPSC
This initiative is significant for UPSC General Studies Paper II under welfare schemes for vulnerable sections, specifically the socio-economic empowerment of Scheduled Castes.
Key objectives
- Develop Scheduled Caste-dominated villages into Adarsh Grams with access to basic services and infrastructure.
- Provide Grants-in-Aid for state and district-level socio-economic and livelihood projects.
- Construct and repair student hostels to support educational opportunities for SC students.
- Leverage the PM-AJAY Mobile App and Portal for digital, real-time monitoring and transparent implementation.