PM-AJAY: 47.59 Lakh Benefited, 16,759 Adarsh Gram Declared
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Schemes
Why in news
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment released updated figures for the Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY), showing over 47.59 lakh citizens benefited and 16,759 villages declared Adarsh Gram. Additionally, ₹22.50 crore was allocated for three hostel projects, including two girls' hostels, for 750 students in FY 2026-27.
Background
PM-AJAY is a central sector scheme aimed at socio-economic empowerment of Scheduled Castes (SCs). It has three components: Adarsh Gram Yojana (holistic development of SC-majority villages), Assistance Grant (livelihood and skill development), and Hostel component (hostel construction/repair for SC students).
Key facts
47,59,399 citizens benefited under Adarsh Gram Yojana across 47,316 villages.
16,759 villages declared Adarsh Gram (model villages).
46,782 development works completed; 24,133 Village Development Plans prepared.
₹22.50 crore allocated for three hostel projects (including two girls' hostels) for 750 students in FY 2026-27.
PM-AJAY has a digital governance structure via PM-AJAY portal and AJAY mobile app for end-to-end online processing.
The scheme focuses on poverty reduction, sustainable livelihood, infrastructure improvement in SC-majority villages, and inclusive development.
Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar emphasized the role of PM-AJAY in addressing socio-economic inequalities through collaborative efforts.
Prelims pointers
- PM-AJAY: Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana
- Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
- Components: Adarsh Gram Yojana, Assistance Grant, Hostel component
- Adarsh Gram Yojana: holistic development of SC-majority villages
- Digital platform: PM-AJAY portal and AJAY mobile app
- Target group: Scheduled Castes (SCs)
- FY 2026-27 allocation for hostels: ₹22.50 crore for 750 students
- Total villages covered under Adarsh Gram Yojana: 47,316
Mains angles
- GS2: Government policies and interventions for development of vulnerable sections – evaluate PM-AJAY's impact on SC empowerment.
- GS2: Role of digital governance in ensuring transparency and efficiency in welfare schemes – discuss with reference to PM-AJAY portal.
- GS1: Social empowerment – analyze how Adarsh Gram Yojana addresses socio-economic inequalities in SC-majority villages.