Team Goemkarponn
CAVELOSSIM: Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Thursday urged stakeholders in Goa to intensify efforts to spread awareness about minority welfare programmes, stating that greater participation would help more people benefit from the assistance available through Central government initiatives.
During an interaction with beneficiaries of schemes supported by the National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation (NMDFC), Rijiju said direct discussions with recipients offer valuable feedback on how welfare programmes are functioning and where improvements may be needed.
The event, organised by the Goa State Minorities Finance and Development Corporation (GSMFDC) in collaboration with NMDFC, provided a platform to review the implementation of various schemes and hear first-hand experiences from beneficiaries.
Rijiju noted that although Goa has a relatively small minority population compared to many other states, there remains considerable scope to increase the utilisation of available schemes. He said better dissemination of information could ensure that eligible individuals and groups are able to access financial and developmental support.
The minister indicated that he would hold discussions with the State government on enhancing awareness of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram, a Central scheme aimed at supporting infrastructure and community development projects in areas with significant minority populations.
Highlighting the importance of financial inclusion, Rijiju said government-backed programmes should be leveraged to encourage entrepreneurship, self-employment and sustainable livelihood opportunities among minority communities. He also underscored the need to involve more women and young people in concessional loan and skill-development initiatives.
As part of efforts to promote local talent and enterprise, the minister proposed bringing the Ministry’s flagship **Lok Samvardhan Parv** to Goa. He said the event could provide a valuable marketplace for artisans, self-help groups and small entrepreneurs to showcase their products and expand their customer base.
Beneficiaries used the occasion to share suggestions on easing access to credit facilities and improving the delivery of welfare services. Rijiju assured participants that their concerns and recommendations would be examined with a view to making the schemes more efficient and user-friendly.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, the minister said welfare initiatives must continue to create opportunities for social and economic advancement while fostering harmony and development across communities.
