Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, Kiren Rijiju with the beneficiaries of the National Minorities Development and Financial Corporation programme at Cavelossim on Thursday.
MARGAO
Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Thursday called for greater awareness and better utilisation of minority welfare schemes in Goa, saying the State can derive significant benefits despite having a relatively small number of beneficiaries.
Interacting with beneficiaries of the National Minorities Development & Finance Corporation (NMDFC) at Cavelossim, Rijiju said he preferred a small, interactive session to understand ground realities and the challenges faced by beneficiaries.
The programme, jointly organised by the Goa State Minorities Finance & Development Corporation (GSMFDC) and NMDFC, reviewed the implementation of minority welfare schemes and gathered direct feedback from beneficiaries.
Rijiju said he would discuss with the State government measures to improve awareness and utilisation of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram, the ministry’s flagship scheme for minority welfare and infrastructure development.
“Goa is a progressive and aware society. It should take full advantage of the schemes and funds available through the Ministry of Minority Affairs and NMDFC,” he said, adding that the ministry aims to promote self-employment, entrepreneurship and economic empowerment among minority communities.
The minister also urged authorities to encourage greater participation of women and youth in concessional loan schemes and reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive development and social harmony.
Rijiju further proposed hosting the ministry’s flagship Lok Samvardhan Parv in Goa, saying the event would provide local artisans, entrepreneurs and self-help groups a platform to showcase and market their products.
Beneficiaries shared their experiences and suggestions on improving access to credit and livelihood opportunities, with the minister assuring them that their feedback would be examined to make the schemes more accessible and responsive.
