New Delhi: PM-AJAY scheme has benefited more than 47.59 lakh citizens across India, while 16,759 villages have achieved Adarsh Gram status under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
The Ministry said the flagship programme has covered 47,316 villages. It has also completed 46,782 development works. In addition, authorities have prepared 24,133 Village Development Plans across the country.
The government has allocated ₹22.50 crore during 2026-27 for three hostel projects. These include two girls’ hostels with accommodation for 750 Scheduled Caste students.
Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr Virendra Kumar said the PM-AJAY scheme helps reduce socio-economic disparities through focused interventions. He added that the programme promotes inclusive growth by empowering Scheduled Caste communities and strengthening grassroots institutions.
PM-AJAY scheme expands villages and education support
The Adarsh Gram component focuses on integrated development in villages with large Scheduled Caste populations. It improves infrastructure, strengthens basic services and encourages community participation.
The Grants-in-Aid component supports livelihood generation, skill development and income enhancement. Meanwhile, the Hostel component improves educational access by funding the construction and repair of hostels for Scheduled Caste students.
The Ministry has also introduced a digital governance system through the PM-AJAY Portal and the AJAY Mobile Application. As a result, officials can prepare Village Development Plans, track funds, monitor beneficiaries and verify projects through geo-tagged reports.
Furthermore, the Ministry is working with States, Union Territories and implementing agencies to complete projects on schedule. It said continued investment in infrastructure, education, livelihoods and digital governance will strengthen inclusive development across the country.
