“Political democracy cannot last unless there lies at the base of it social democracy.” — Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

“ We, the People of India, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic and to secure to all its citizens: Justice – social, economic and political; Liberty; Equality; and to promote Fraternity assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation… ”The vision of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar continues to guide our nation. The Preamble of our Constitution is not merely a statement of ideals; it is a living promise of justice, equality, and dignity for every citizen.

Over the past eleven years, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has worked with dedication to translate this constitutional vision into real and measurable progress. On the occasion of our continued commitment to social justice, I am proud to share the remarkable progress made by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment over the past eleven years. Our goal has been clear – to build an inclusive India where every citizen lives with dignity, equal opportunity, and security. One of our most transformative initiatives is the National Action for Mechanised Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE). Launched jointly with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, this scheme is eliminating hazardous sanitation work and promoting mechanised cleaning.

Over 89,000 sanitation workers have been validated, more than 85,000 provided PPE kits, and over 74,000 issued Ayushman Cards. Nearly three lakh waste pickers have been profiled. NAMASTE reflects our strong resolve to ensure safety, dignity, and respect for sanitation workers. The transformation we are witnessing today is not only technological but deeply human. By replacing hazardous practices with mechanised solutions, we are restoring dignity to labour and reaffirming that every worker deserves safety, respect, and recognition. As Dr. Ambedkar reminded us, “Dignity is not a privilege; it is a birthright.” NAMASTE is a decisive step toward realizing that ideal.

Education remains the most powerful tool for empowerment. As Dr. Ambedkar profoundly stated, “Cultivation of mind should be the ultimate aim of human existence.” Guided by this vision, we have consistently worked to expand educational opportunities for marginalized communities. Under SHREYAS for OBC students, more than Rs 640 crore has been released for National Fellowships, benefiting over 14,000 scholars. The Dr. Ambedkar Interest Subsidy Scheme has supported over 29,000 students pursuing higher education abroad.

For Scheduled Castes, the Post Matric Scholarship Scheme has benefited over 5.65 crore students with assistance of more than Rs 40,000 crore. The Pre -Matric Scholarship scheme has supported over 2.72 crore students. Through PM-YASASVI, we have strengthened support for OBC, EBC and DNT students with scholarships and hostel facilities across the country. Our focus has also been on improving quality education through SHRESHTA, which has supported nearly 3.48 lakh SC students with central assistance of over Rs 648 crore. Under PM-AJAY, more than 15,000 villages have been developed as Adarsh Grams, and lakhs of beneficiaries have received financial support and hostel facilities.

Skill development is another pillar of empowerment. Under PM-DAKSH, more than 1.87 lakh candidates from SC, OBC, EWS, DNT and Safai Karamchari communities have been trained. The scheme has now been merged with PMKVY to expand its reach further. Addressing drug abuse has been a national priority, as substance dependence threatens not only individual health but also family stability and social harmony. Through the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction and the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, we have adopted a whole-of-society approach – combining awareness, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.

NMBA has evolved into one of the world’s largest community-driven movements against substance abuse, engaging youth, educational institutions, community leaders, and civil society organizations. Awareness campaigns, pledge drives, campus engagements, and grassroots outreach have helped transform public perception – encouraging people to view addiction as a health issue requiring care and support rather than stigma. We firmly believe that the energy of our youth must be directed toward nation-building. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi has often emphasized, “The youth are the architects of India’s future.”

By empowering them with the right awareness and support systems, we are safeguarding the demographic dividend of our country. The national helpline 14446 continues to serve as a lifeline for individuals and families seeking conf idential counselling and professional assistance. Our vision is clear: a healthier, more aware, and resilient India where every young person can pursue their aspirations free from the shadow of addiction. We remain firmly committed to protecting the rights of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

Amendments to the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act have strengthened legal safeguards. Since 2014, over Rs 4,947 crore has been released to support more than 8 lakh atrocity victims and provide incentives for over 2.57 lakh inter-caste marriages. The National Helpline Against Atrocities (14566) ensures awareness and timely assistance. Our efforts extend to senior citizens through the Atal Vayo Abhyudaya Yojana. More than 10 lakh elderly persons have been supported, and over 7.8 lakh beneficiaries have received assistive devices under Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana.

The Elderline 14567 provides emotional and legal support nationwide. Through the SMILE scheme, we are promoting the welfare of transgender persons with shelter homes, skill training, and healthcare convergence under Ayushman Bharat. More than 31,000 transgender identity certificates have been issued through the national portal. Special care has also been extended to children affected by the Covid-19 pandemic under the PM CARES for Children initiative, ensuring uninterrupted education through scholarships. These achievements are not merely statistics – they represent transformed lives and renewed hope. Our mission remains guided by the Constitution’s promise of equality and dignity for all.

We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that social justice reaches every doorstep, leaving no one behind. As we move forward, our commitment remains unwavering – to build a society anchored in equality, guided by justice, and inspired by humanity. The path ahead calls for continued innovation, sensitivity, and determination, but with the strength of our constitutional values, we are confident of creating an India where progress is shared and dignity is universal. “Life should be great rather than long,” said Dr. Ambedkar. Guided by his ideals, we will continue working to ensure that every Indian lives a life of dignity, equality and opportunity.

(The writer is Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India)

Ministry of Social Justice

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