PMVIKAS Scheme focuses on empowerment of minority communities through skill development; entrepreneurship; leadership training for minority women; and educational support for school dropouts

The Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA) has introduced the Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) scheme, a pivotal initiative aimed at empowering minority communities across India. This flagship programme consolidates five previous schemes, including Seekho aur Kamao (SAK) and Nai Roshni, to offer a holistic approach to empowerment. PM VIKAS focuses on critical areas such as skill development, entrepreneurship, leadership training for minority women, and providing educational support for school dropouts. The earlier Seekho aur Kamao scheme, launched in 2013-14, successfully trained approximately 4.68 lakh beneficiaries, equipping minority youth aged 14-45 years with skills for employment or self-employment based on market trends. Similarly, the Nai Roshni Scheme, initiated in 2012-13, concentrated on building confidence and empowering women from minority communities by enhancing their engagement with government and financial systems.
To further promote cultural heritage and economic contributions, the Ministry organises 'Hunar Haat' under the USTTAD scheme and now 'Lok Samvardhan Parv' under PM VIKAS. These events provide artisans from minority communities with vital platforms to showcase and market their handicrafts, indigenous products, and culinary traditions, while also raising public awareness of the Ministry's welfare schemes. To date, 41 'Hunar Haat' and 4 'Lok Samvardhan Parv' events have been held nationwide. Based on comprehensive feedback, the Ministry continuously implements improvements for these events, including enhanced infrastructure, digital enablement for sales, and targeted promotional strategies, aiming to increase footfall and strengthen market linkages for artisans. Additionally, the National Minority Development Finance Corporation (NMDFC) under the Ministry offers enterprise development loans, supporting self-employment and entrepreneurship within these communities. The Union Minister of Minority Affairs & Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Kiren Rijiju, provided this information in a written reply to the Lok Sabha.

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