The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has reported fresh progress under the Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY), a scheme for the socio-economic empowerment of Scheduled Caste communities. The update matters because PM-AJAY combines village infrastructure, livelihoods, hostels, and digital monitoring under one framework for inclusive development.
What the Ministry said now
The ministry said the Adarsh Gram component has covered 47,316 villages and benefited 47,59,399 citizens across India. The ministry also said 46,782 development works have been completed and 24,133 Village Development Plans (VDPs) have been prepared.
The ministry further said 16,759 villages have been declared Adarsh Grams. The ministry presented these figures as evidence of progress in basic services, infrastructure, and quality of life in Scheduled Caste-majority villages.
Additional allocation for hostels
The ministry said it has allocated ₹22.50 crore for financial year 2026-27 for construction of three hostel projects, including two hostels for girls. The ministry said these projects are meant to provide accommodation for 750 students and expand educational access for Scheduled Caste youth.
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