The Government of India is actively implementing a range of welfare schemes under its inclusive development policy, Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas, aimed at uplifting all sections of society, including minority communities. These initiatives particularly focus on the economically weaker and underprivileged among the six centrally notified minority communities—Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, Jains, Parsis, and Sikhs.

Articles 15(1) & (2), 16(1) & (2), 25(1), 26, 28, and 29(2) of the Indian Constitution guarantee protection and freedom from discrimination for all citizens, including minorities. In addition, Articles 30(1), 30(1A), and 30(2) specifically address the rights of minority communities.

The Government has taken a holistic approach to ensure that all eligible beneficiaries are covered under these welfare programs. Several schemes have been restructured to broaden their scope, making them universally accessible to all qualified individuals. Under its saturation strategy, many of these schemes have now been mainstreamed.

To enhance the effectiveness and reach of these initiatives, the Government has established robust monitoring mechanisms. Among them is the Development Monitoring and Evaluation Office (DMEO) of NITI Aayog, tasked with overseeing the implementation and evaluation of various central government schemes, programs, and initiatives. DMEO uses the Output-Outcome Monitoring Framework (OOMF) to track progress through measurable indicators aligned with scheme objectives and expected outcomes.

Additionally, individual ministries and departments have built-in monitoring systems to regularly assess the performance of their respective schemes.

This information was provided by Union Minister of Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju, in a written response in the Lok Sabha today.