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The Ministry of Minority Affairs is actively implementing various schemes and programmes across India to uplift and empower economically weaker sections of minority communities. These initiatives focus on education, skill development, entrepreneurship, and financial support, ensuring inclusive growth and socio-economic advancement. Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) The Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) scheme is a flagship initiative of the Ministry that merges five previous schemes: Seekho Aur Kamao (Skill Development) Nai Manzil (Educational Support for School Dropouts) USTTAD (Preservation of Traditional Art and Craft) Nai Roshni (Women Leadership Development) Hamari Dharohar (Cultural Heritage Promotion) The PM VIKAS scheme is designed to provide: Skill training and vocational education Women leadership and entrepreneurship development Support for school dropouts to continue education Market and credit linkages for beneficiaries National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation (NMDFC) The NMDFC plays a vital role in the economic empowerment of minority communities by offering concessional loans for self-employment and income-generating activities. The schemes implemented by NMDFC include: Term Loan Scheme Microfinance Scheme Education Loan Scheme Virasat Scheme (Financial support for traditional artisans and craftspeople) These schemes are executed through State Channelizing Agencies (SCAs), Punjab Gramin Bank, and Canara Bank, ensuring easy access to financial assistance. Impact and Reach of NMDFC Initiatives Since its inception in 1994-95, NMDFC has disbursed Rs 948 billion as of February 28, 2025, benefiting approximately 25.49 lakh individuals from minority communities. Notably, around 89.68% of the beneficiaries are women, including Muslim women, highlighting a significant step towards women’s economic empowerment. Union Minister of Minority & Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju, presented these updates in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and equal opportunities for all.