Thiruvananthapuram, March 6: Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, declared on Thursday that minorities in India are the "luckiest people" due to the country's exclusive schemes and welfare programs dedicated to their development, a privilege not found elsewhere in the world.
Speaking at a regional review meeting and training workshop on the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) for the Southern Region’s states and union territories, Rijiju addressed claims that minorities in India are unsafe. He refuted such claims, stating that these narratives were based on misinformation.
“Some people are spreading false narratives that minorities are not safe in India and that there’s discrimination against them. These claims are completely untrue,” Rijiju said. "On the contrary, minorities in India are the luckiest, as the government provides special schemes and programs just for them. Nowhere else in the world can you find such exclusive initiatives."
The Minister urged citizens to recognize and appreciate the welfare efforts of both the state and central governments. “We are fortunate to be Indian citizens, and we must acknowledge the positive welfare initiatives from our government, both at the state and central levels,” he added.
Rijiju pointed to Kerala as an example, where 44 percent of the population consists of Christians and Muslims, making it one of the regions with the highest concentration of minority communities in the country. This, he explained, naturally leads to more welfare schemes being implemented in the state.
"If the Kerala government identifies any project where the central government can offer support, we will ensure timely assistance," Rijiju said. "Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs, George Kurian, a senior leader from Kerala, provides an added advantage to the state in this regard."
He also highlighted the success of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) in Kerala, with the state showing one of the highest rates of loan disbursement and beneficiary numbers in the country.
“Kerala's success story is something to be proud of, and I am very pleased with the progress made,” he added.
The Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at creating community infrastructure and basic amenities in identified areas. It is implemented by state or union territory governments on a fund-sharing basis, benefiting all residents of the areas where it is implemented.
Rijiju also announced that the next Lok Samvardhan Parv, a major event for artisans to sell their products, would be held in Kerala in August. "Our MoS George Kurien will take the lead, and I will try to attend if my schedule permits," he said.
The Lok Samvardhan Parv is a significant event that supports the Ministry's inclusive development program. It helps a wide range of minority community members by converging with partner organizations, with the government providing transportation and other logistics for the participants.
