PM Modi Launches PM-SURAJ Portal to Empower Marginalized Communities with Credit Support

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the ‘Pradhan Mantri Samajik Utthan and Rozgar Adharit Jankalyan’ (PM-SURAJ) national portal during an event organized Wednesday by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The launch ceremony, graced by PM Modi as the Chief Guest, emphasized the government’s commitment to extending credit support to one lakh entrepreneurs from disadvantaged communities.

Expanding on the Launch Ceremony:

During the event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally interacted with beneficiaries from various states who have availed themselves of schemes like NAMASTE, VCF-SC, VCF-BC, and ASIIM. These schemes cater to individuals from Scheduled Castes, backward classes, and Safai Mitras, providing them with essential support for economic upliftment.

Distribution of Ayushman Health Cards and PPE Kits:

Additionally, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment distributed Ayushman health cards and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits to sewer and septic tank workers (Safai Mitras) under the National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem (NAMASTE) program. The Ayushman health card, issued under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), grants beneficiaries access to cashless healthcare services at empanelled hospitals. Meanwhile, PPE kits are crucial for ensuring the safety of frontline workers, providing them with necessary protection against health hazards and infections.

Government's Commitment to Inclusivity:

The event underscored the government’s commitment to “Vanchiton Ko Variyata,” ensuring equitable support for historically underserved communities. This dedication reflects the broader vision of “Viksit Bharat,” wherein every individual has the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from India’s development journey.

Engagement and Participation:

With over three lakh individuals attending offline and an additional three lakh viewers tuning in online, the event witnessed overwhelming engagement. This collective determination highlights the shared goal of fostering inclusivity and prosperity for all segments of society.

Details of Some Government Schemes

• VCF-SC (Venture Capital Fund for Scheduled Castes): This scheme provides financial assistance to businesses owned by members of Scheduled Castes (SCs). It offers concessional loans at a lower interest rate compared to market rates https://www.vcfsc.in/index.html.

• VCF-BC (Venture Capital Fund for Backward Classes): Similar to VCF-SC, this scheme supports entrepreneurs from Backward Classes (BCs) by providing equity and financial aid to their businesses https://www.vcfsc.in/vcfbc/index.html.

• ASIIM (Ambedkar Social Innovation Incubation Mission): This mission is a sub-scheme under VCF-SC that specifically targets SC youth with innovative and technology-based business ideas. ASIIM offers funding, mentorship, and guidance to help them establish successful ventures https://www.vcfsc.in/asiim/budgeting.html.