Proposal aims to address education, employment, and security issues of minority communities
Team Clarion
AHMEDABAD — The Minority Coordination Committee-Gujarat (MCC-G) has urged the state government to allocate ₹193 crore in the 2025-26 budget for the welfare and protection of minority communities. The proposal, submitted by the committee headed by Mujahid Nafees, seeks to address pressing issues such as education gaps, unemployment, and social security for minorities, who constitute 11.5% of Gujarat’s population.
According to data from the Ministry of Minority Affairs, 10.18% of Muslim girls in Gujarat drop out at the primary school level, while unemployment rates in both rural and urban areas continue to rise. “These challenges demand immediate attention and targeted interventions,” said Nafees. “Our proposal is a roadmap to ensure equitable development and justice for minority communities.”
The budget proposal includes several key initiatives:
- Establishment of a Ministry of Minority Welfare: A dedicated ministry to oversee and implement welfare programs.
- Creation of a State Minority Commission: To safeguard minority interests and ensure fair implementation of government policies.
- Education and Skill Development: ₹50 crore has been proposed for scholarships, skill development, and financial assistance for professional courses.
- Infrastructure Development: ₹20 crore for housing schemes and ₹5 crore for riot-affected areas, along with ₹2 crore for working women from minority communities.
- Economic Empowerment: A ₹30 crore package for economic upliftment, including ₹5 crore for strengthening Waqf Boards and promoting traditional arts.
- Security and Social Welfare: ₹5 crore for religious pilgrims, ₹10 crore for voluntary organizations, and ₹5 crore for media campaigns to promote minority welfare.
The MCC-G has also called for stricter laws to protect minorities, including the introduction of a Minorities (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and stringent measures against mob lynching. “The implementation of these measures is crucial to ensure the safety and dignity of minority communities,” Nafees emphasized.
The committee has also demanded the full implementation of the Prime Minister’s 15-point program, which focuses on the welfare of minorities. “Through these allocations, Gujarat can empower its minority communities and uphold the constitutional principles of justice and equality,” Nafees added.
The proposal has sparked discussions among community leaders and activists. “This budget could be a turning point for minority welfare in Gujarat,” said social activist Priya Sharma. “However, its success will depend on the government’s commitment to implementation.”
As the state government reviews the proposal, stakeholders await a decision that could significantly impact the lives of millions. “We hope the government will consider our demands seriously and take steps to bridge the gaps in development,” Nafees concluded.
The 2025-26 budget session is expected to begin next month, with minority welfare likely to be a key topic of debate.