• By Kamakshi Bishnoi
  • Mon, 14 Apr 2025 12:12 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND

In a significant step toward social upliftment, the Yogi government has, over the past eight years, launched a series of initiatives aimed at empowering Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities across Uttar Pradesh. These schemes focus on integrating marginalised families into sustainable economic activities, with the goal of helping them earn a stable annual income of at least Rs 1.25 lakh.

Education has been a central priority, with provisions for free schooling, books, and uniforms for SC/ST children. Special emphasis has been placed on tribal groups such as Tharu, Kol, and Musahar, ensuring uninterrupted education for their children.

The Atal Residential Schools—well-equipped and established in every division—have gained nationwide recognition. Additionally, the creation of Chief Minister Composite Schools in 57 districts in the first phase, followed by all 350 tehsils and 825 development blocks, is paving the way for a better educational future for these communities.

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Under the Chief Minister’s Yuva Swarozgar Yojana, SC/ST youth are eligible for loans up to Rs 25 lakh along with a 25 per cent subsidy to support entrepreneurship in industries and services. The Scheduled Caste Finance and Development Corporation also provides interest-free loans and grants for small business ventures. 

Landless families have been granted land leases and permanent housing under schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana. Furthermore, SC/ST households have received priority access to over 1.86 crore Ujjwala gas connections and 5 crore Ayushman Bharat health cards. In cases of atrocities under the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act, victims are given immediate financial aid ranging from Rs 22,500 to Rs 8.25 lakh.