J&K Chapter of ‘Ambedkar Chamber of Commerce’ launched
Avtar Bhat
JAMMU, Apr 25 : Maintaining that Narendra Modi Government’s enabling schemes raised aspiration levels among weaker sections of society, Union Minister in PMO with independent charge of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Ministries, Dr Jitendra Singh today said that statistical evidence reflects the positive impact of these schemes on the socio-economic advancement on Dalits and other marginalized groups.
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Dr. Jitendra Singh while addressing the launching ceremony of Ambedkar Chamber of Commerce at Jammu University here, today lambasted Congress for exploiting the weaker sections of the society for decades together for their vote bank politics but failed to do anything in practical for the betterment of these communities during its decades rule at Centre and states all over country.
The Union Minister said it was only at the instance of BJP that Dr B R Ambedkar was conferred Bharat Ratna in 1990 by VP Singh Government while Congress never considered him for this prestigious award negating his contributions to the nation.
Dr Jitendra Singh said Modi Government has taken several steps to honour Dr B R Ambedkar’s legacy by developing the Panchteerath, declaring November 26 as Constitutional Day and inaugurating the Dr Ambedkar International Centre. The initiative is focused on connecting his ideology with modern governance.
Maintaining that Modi Government’s Mantra is Sabka Sath , Sabka Vikas and Sabka Vishwas, the Minister called for developing entrepreneurship mindset and an investment-oriented approach among Scheduled Caste (SC) community and other weaker sections of society to avail of schemes rolled out by the Narendra Modi Government.
Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that the Government has created a wholesome system for weaker sections, including SCs and STs for handholding and supporting them right from the early age. He underlined that members of marginalized sections should move beyond reliance solely on Government employment and actively explore opportunities in entrepreneurship and enterprise development.
Highlighting the initiatives of the Government led by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, he said that a series of targeted schemes have been introduced with a central focus on the upliftment of weaker sections of society. He termed Jan Dhan Scheme as a financial inclusion initiative, and described MUDRA Loan Scheme as a transformative step in enabling access to credit. He also referred to the Vishwakarma Yojana, aimed at preserving traditional crafts while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that statistical evidence reflects the positive impact of these schemes on the socio-economic advancement of Dalits and other marginalized groups. He noted a visible rise in aspirations among these communities, pointing out that candidates from humble backgrounds are increasingly succeeding in competitive examinations, including civil services. He also referred to the elevation of Adivasi lady as President of India, a reflection of social empowerment.
The Minister emphasized the importance of creating greater awareness about Government welfare schemes to ensure maximum outreach and benefit. He highlighted initiatives such as Vigyan Jyoti, aimed at promoting scientific temper and innovation among girls.
Referring to regional efforts, Dr. Jitendra Singh mentioned Khadi promotion camps organized in Udhampur district, where subsidies amounting to Rs 50 crore were distributed in a single day. He noted that beneficiaries largely came from the Kashmir Valley and stressed the need to expand awareness about such opportunities.
Dr. Jitendra Singh further listed several schemes supporting marginalized communities, including pre-matric and post-matric scholarships for SCs, STs, and OBCs, Dr. Ambedkar scholarships, National Fellowship for OBCs in biotechnology, inclusivity grants under the National Research Foundation (Anusandhan), Rozgar Melas providing employment opportunities, Venture Capital Fund for SCs and OBCs, and the Ambedkar Innovation and Incubation Mission. He also highlighted region-specific initiatives such as the Aroma Mission, which provides alternative and sustainable livelihood opportunities, and Science Technology Innovation Hubs, where a significant proportion of beneficiaries are from SC communities.
Later, speaking to the media, Dr. Jitendra Singh announced that the Vande Bharat Express service between Jammu and Srinagar will commence from 30 April. He informed that the number of coaches in the train has also been increased.
The Minister expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for prioritizing infrastructure development in Jammu & Kashmir. He noted that while the rail network had reached Jammu in 1962, expansion remained stalled for several decades. Renewed efforts in recent years have accelerated progress, resulting in improved connectivity and integration of the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country.
Others who spoke during the function included Dr D K Manyal, , MLA, Bharat Bushan, ex DDC Chairman, Prof Garu Ram Bhagat, Dr Bharat Bushan, MLAs, Raja Ajaz Ali (retd) IGP ,Prof Gurdev Chand of SKUAST and BJP SC Morcha president, Dharminder Kumar.
A technical presentation on the National SC/ST Hub Scheme was delivered by Ankita Singh, Assistant Manager, KPMG Advisory Service, Prof. Satinder Kumar from Department of Law University of Jammu gave the welcome address. The inaugural address was delivered by Iqbal Singh Atwal, DG DACC and vote of thanks was presented by Sachin Pal, advisor, DACC. The programme was conducted by Tushar Bhardwaj.
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