Inadequate Allocation for SCs and STs in Interim Budget, Says National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights

The Union government’s commitment to inclusive development faced scrutiny on Friday as the National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights (NCDHR) revealed a meager allocation for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the interim budget for 2024-25.

By Hams News Staff

During a news conference, the NCDHR highlighted that funds allocated for SCs and STs were seemingly placed under general schemes like urea subsidy or road construction, rather than targeted programs such as scholarships designed to provide greater benefits to marginalized sections.

The total estimated expenditure in the Union Budget 2024-25 is Rs 51,08,780 crore. However, the allocation specifically for the welfare of SCs is Rs 1,65,598 crore, and for STs, it is Rs 1,21,023 crore.

Paul Diwakar, an activist and general secretary of the NCDHR, pointed out that Niti Aayog had set ministry-wise obligations, requiring a certain percentage of their budgets to be spent on SCs and STs. The obligation amounts to Rs 2.1 lakh crore for SCs and Rs 1.2 lakh crore for STs.

A significant portion of the allocated amount has been directed towards general schemes. For instance, proposed spending for SCs includes a urea subsidy payment of Rs 11,000 crore, Rs 10,000 crore under Pradhan Mantri Kisan Nidhi, and Rs 15,000 crore under the Jal Jeevan mission or piped water scheme.

While scholarship schemes play a crucial role in uplifting SCs and STs, the NCDHR noted that allocations for impactful programs such as Top Class Education for SCs, National Overseas Scholarship, National SCs/STs Hub Centre, and Free Coaching for SCs, STs, and OBCs have remained nearly unchanged.

The allocations for targeted schemes for SCs were found to be Rs 44,282 crore, and for STs, Rs 36,212 crore.

Diwakar emphasized that SCs and STs could significantly develop and improve their condition with support from targeted schemes. However, the government’s greater allocation under general schemes, benefiting the entire population, raises concerns. Diwakar stressed the need for exclusive benefits for SCs and STs under funds designated for their welfare, in addition to any benefits received under general schemes for the broader population.

Courtesy : Hams Live News

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