The Pradhan Mantri Virasat Ka Samvardhan (PM VIKAS) is a Central Sector Scheme under the Ministry of Minority Affairs. It consolidates five previous schemes - Seekho Aur Kamao, Nai Manzil, Nai Roshni, USTTAD, and Hamari Dharohar - with the goal of uplifting six notified minority communities. The scheme focuses on four key areas:
Skill Development and Training: Offering both traditional and non-traditional skill enhancement opportunities.
Women Leadership and Entrepreneurship: Promoting women's empowerment through leadership programs and entrepreneurial support.
Education: Facilitating education through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS).
Infrastructure Development: Supporting projects through the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK).
Additionally, PM-VIKAS aims to provide financial support by facilitating credit linkages, connecting beneficiaries with loan programs offered by the National Minorities Development & Finance Corporation (NMDFC). Proposals have been received under the scheme, and the Ministry is currently in the process of shortlisting and finalizing the projects.
The Ministry is actively collaborating with Central Government Ministries, Departments, and State/UT governments to invite proposals from interested agencies. Awareness about the scheme is also promoted through events like Hunar Haat and Lok Samvardhan Parv, as well as through print and social media platforms.
This information was provided by the Union Minister of Minority Affairs & Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.