PM-AJAY Drives Inclusive Development Through Adarsh Grams, Socio-Economic Projects and Educational Infrastructure

Key Highlights:

• PM-AJAY (Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana) drives inclusive development for Scheduled Caste communities.
• Over 47,200 villages have been covered, benefiting more than 47.79 lakh citizens across the country.
• As of September 8, 2026, 18,093 villages have been declared Adarsh Grams under the scheme.
• The scheme is 100% Centrally Funded and implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• It comprises three components: development of Adarsh Grams, Grants-in-Aid for socio-economic projects, and construction/repair of hostels.
• The PM-AJAY Mobile App and PM-AJAY Portal have been launched for digital processing and real-time monitoring.

Detailed Insights:

• The Adarsh Gram component aims to improve infrastructure, basic services, and quality of life in Scheduled Caste-majority villages.
• Grants-in-Aid provide financial assistance for livelihood promotion, skill development, and related infrastructure at state and district levels.
• Approximately ₹1,730 Crore was released to States under the Grants-in-Aid component from FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26.
• The hostel component facilitates access to accommodation and educational opportunities for Scheduled Caste students, especially from rural areas.
• As of September 2026, 785 student hostels have been completed under the scheme.
• The digital platforms enhance transparency, accountability, and data-driven decision-making in welfare interventions.
• Funding allocation includes provisions for gap-filling activities, technical support groups, hostels, and Grants-in-Aid.
• PM-AJAY contributes to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 by empowering Scheduled Caste communities.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY): A central government scheme for the socio-economic and educational empowerment of Scheduled Caste communities.
• Adarsh Gram: A model village envisioned with access to basic services, met minimum needs, and reduced disparities for all sections of society.
• Centrally Funded Scheme: A government scheme where the entire funding is provided by the central government.