Guwahati, Feb 8: Assam’s Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Pijush Hazarika, has urged the Central Advisory Committee (CAC) of the Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyudaya Yojana (PM-AJAY) to enhance the hostel component funding for Assam and the Northeast.

Speaking at the first CAC meeting held at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi, Hazarika highlighted the region’s unique challenges and emphasized the need for greater financial support. “Compared to other parts of the country, the Northeast requires more assistance under the hostel component,” he said, requesting an increase from the current ₹20 lakh allocation.

Hazarika reaffirmed Assam’s commitment to improving the lives of Scheduled Caste (SC) communities through the PM-AJAY scheme.

The meeting was chaired by Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar and attended by CAC members, state ministers, and senior officials from various ministries. Dr. Kumar underscored the scheme’s importance, stating, “Through focused interventions and collaborative efforts, we are working towards empowering SC individuals and promoting holistic growth.”

Launched in 2021-22 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, PM-AJAY aims to uplift Scheduled Caste communities across India through initiatives in education, poverty alleviation, and skill development. The CAC is tasked with 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 emphasized that the dedicated institution would empower Divyangjans (persons with disabilities) through education, skill development, and employment opportunities.

Sharing the development on X, Hazarika posted:

“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. believes this institution will empower Divyangjans through education, skill development, and empowerment, contributing significantly to nation-building and societal progress.”

Read: NEIPDA alleges ₹50 Crore monthly tax evasion by oil marketing companies in Assam

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