Dehradun: On the occasion of World Minority Rights Day, a special event was organized in Dehradun, where Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami honored meritorious students from minority communities. A large number of Muslim women attending the event expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code in Uttarakhand.
CM Dhami emphasized that the day serves as a reminder of India’s fundamental duties towards the unity and integrity of the nation.
Promoting Equality and Inclusivity
Highlighting India’s rich cultural diversity, CM Dhami said that Indian culture has always upheld the principles of equality and respect for all religions and communities. Despite the diversity of languages, traditions, and cuisines, a spirit of unity has prevailed in India.
He noted that India has embraced the “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” principle, considering the world as one family. Under PM Narendra Modi’s leadership and the motto “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas”, all communities are being supported to progress together.
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Welfare Schemes for Minority Communities
CM Dhami highlighted various central and state government schemes that integrate minority communities into the mainstream:
- Jan Dhan Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, PM Awas Yojana, and free ration schemes for inclusive development.
- Minority Development Fund with an annual allocation of ₹4 crore to boost economic and educational growth in minority areas.
- Hunar Scheme linking minority community members with employment opportunities.
- Minority Self-Employment Scheme providing loans up to ₹10 lakh with a 25% subsidy for self-employment.
- Maulana Azad Education Loan Scheme offering interest-free loans up to ₹5 lakh for students from economically weaker minority backgrounds.
Over the past four years, 169 beneficiaries have received more than ₹4 crore under these schemes.
Global Context and Minority Rights
CM Dhami pointed out that in several countries, minorities often face discrimination, denial of rights, and persecution. He cited neighboring countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh, where minority communities have historically been deprived of social and religious rights.
Proposals for Uttarakhand Minority Welfare
For Uttarakhand, CM Dhami noted that all minority welfare schemes currently cater to families with an annual income of up to ₹2.5 lakh, and he has proposed to increase this threshold to ₹4 lakh to extend benefits to more families.
