PM-AJAY Accelerates Socio-Economic Development of Scheduled Caste Communities

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is implementing the Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY) as a merged Centrally Sponsored Scheme since 2021-22, combining three erstwhile schemes: Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana, Special Central Assistance to Scheduled Castes Sub Plan, and Babu Jagjivan Ram Chhatrawas Yojana. According to the Ministry, over Rs. 11,186 crores have been released across its three components (Adarsh Gram, Grant-in-Aid, and Hostel) over the past 12 years. The scheme aims to reduce poverty and improve socio-economic indicators, infrastructure, skill development, livelihood opportunities, and educational access for Scheduled Caste communities.