Latest news with #MinistryofSocialJusticeandEmpowerment
News18
6 days ago
- Health
- News18
A Call To Build A Drug-Free India
Addiction is not merely a chemical dependency; it is a symptom of inner unrest. The Hon'ble Prime Minister has called upon the nation to work together for a Viksit Bharat, a developed India, by 2047. A drug-free society is essential to this vision, where young people grow with health, purpose, and inner strength. This priority was reaffirmed in July 2025 during the Youth Spiritual Summit in Kashi, where the national pledge ' Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat" was taken by leaders from government, spiritual organisations, and civil society. The Prime Minister's Office described it as ' a major step in building a drug-free India". According to the National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use in India (2018–19), about 7.3 crore Indians were addicted to some form of substance, including 1.2 crore children. This alarming data prompted the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment to launch the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA), focusing on prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration, with special attention on students and adolescents, our demographic dividend, and also among the most vulnerable groups. The effects of this are visible in schools, colleges, homes, and neighborhoods across the country. As the NMBA newsletter rightly notes, 'educational spaces must remain drug-free, safe, and nurturing environments where students can thrive and contribute to a Viksit Bharat." India is preparing to celebrate 100 years of independence in 2047. For that vision to be realised, our youth must be strong, not just physically and intellectually, but also emotionally and spiritually. Yet many young hearts are quietly struggling. They are not merely hungry for success or recognition; they are hungry for connection. When connection is lost, other struggles begin to take root, like anxiety, fear, and addiction. Addiction is not merely a chemical dependency; it is a symptom of inner unrest. When the heart feels empty and the mind has no anchor, people reach outside for relief. Alcohol, drugs, screens, these become escapes from a deeper ache. The Real Cure Begins With Reconnection When a person feels cut off, from meaning, from belonging, from inner strength, the mind becomes restless. The heart becomes numb. In this state, harmful habits thrive. Heartfulness addresses this root cause by restoring connection. Through simple practices, relaxation, meditation with yogic transmission, and a method called Cleaning, people begin to feel their inner space again. That space brings peace, clarity, and natural strength. Slowly, the need for escape vanishes. When we connect to the heart, and through it to the Source of peace within, life becomes meaningful again. This is the foundation for a drug-free life. We are not saying 'no". We are discovering a deeper 'yes". Our youth must be helped to say 'yes" to something real. That 'yes" begins with reconnection, with the heart, with higher purpose, and with the Source within. What the Kashi Pledge Says, and How We Support It The recent 'Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat" pledge from Kashi brings together leaders across sectors, recognising that building a drug-free India requires participation from all stakeholders, especially the government, civil society, educators, spiritual groups, families, and especially the youth. It calls us to serve, cooperate, and act. At Heartfulness Institute, we fully accept this responsibility. For years, we have helped individuals find inner balance. When the mind is serene and the heart is strong, the pull of harmful habits fades. Our efforts are part of this national mission. The Pledge calls for campaigns in schools, youth-led clubs, de-addiction awareness, and partnerships with spiritual and cultural groups. Heartfulness is actively contributing in each of these areas and will continue to do so: Kanha Shanti Vanam: National Centre for Capacity Building in Support of NMBA Training and Institutional Development As a designated National Centre for Capacity Building, Kanha Shanti Vanam will support the training and development of personnel and institutions engaged in the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan across India. We will conduct orientation sessions, counselor training, and integrated retreats that integrate Heartfulness practices with preventive and recovery support systems. It is also our vision to establish a Manobal Kendra in every city in India, centers dedicated to developing inner resilience and strength, contributing to a truly Viksit Bharat. Youth leaders, educators, families, and frontline volunteers will be equipped to support those at risk and help build drug-free communities rooted in emotional and spiritual well-being. Each gathering will also reaffirm our collective commitment through the Kashi Pledge, strengthening the shared resolve to create a healthier, addiction-free India. Awareness in Schools and Colleges We guide meditation sessions and relaxation exercises that help students experience calm, even if only for minutes. This experience continues to shape who they are. Alongside these sessions, we facilitate the Kashi Pledge in classrooms and assemblies, allowing students and teachers to come together in a shared commitment toward a drug-free learning environment. Through Heartfulness Youth Clubs, students meditate together, set positive goals, and support one another, creating networks of connection and belonging. Within these clubs, the Kashi Pledge becomes a natural part of the culture, an affirmation of their intent to live consciously and support one another in staying free from harmful influences. Our teams engage in prisons, rehab centres, and public events to share Heartfulness as a tool for both prevention and recovery. In each of these spaces, the Kashi Pledge will be introduced so that individuals can mark a turning point in their own journey toward balance and self-respect. Nasha Mukti App For those already struggling, our free app offers guided relaxation, short meditations, and progress tracking. It is a support tool and helps restore balance. Trainer Network Thousands of Heartfulness trainers across India offer one-on-one guidance, free of charge. Those seeking help can reach a nearby trainer. Support for Families Addiction affects entire families. We invite parents, spouses, and caregivers to attend sessions at our World Headquarters at Kanha Shanti Vanam for regular parenting sessions, so they can support recovery with patience and compassion. Training Volunteers We empower young volunteers to share these tools with peers, leading by their own transformation and example. Strength That Spreads A nation's strength rests in the inner condition of its people. When hearts are strong, minds are clear, and actions are guided by conscience, a society becomes resilient. This kind of inner balance begins with sincere practice. Even one person living with awareness brings calm into their surroundings. Families, schools, and communities begin to reflect that calmness. Change happens through example. Heartfulness remains committed to nurturing this strength, person by person, in every corner of the country. From Stillness to Service The Kashi Pledge is a collective commitment. It invites all of us to rise with sincerity and care. Let us ensure that every child is seen. Let every home become a place of calm and guidance. Let every young person know where to turn for help and inner strength. We encourage parents, teachers, and community leaders to come forward. Begin with five minutes of meditation. Use the Heartfulness tools that are freely available. top videos View all This is how a culture of clarity and connection takes shape. One small act at a time. Firmly together. Kamlesh D Patel, aka Daaji, is the President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission and Global Guide of Heartfulness. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views. tags : Drug Free India drugs view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 23, 2025, 13:03 IST News opinion Opinion | A Call To Build A Drug-Free India Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Hindu
19-07-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Scholarships: July 19, 2025
Free Coaching for DNT Students under the Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNTs (SEED) An initiative by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. Eligibility: Students belonging to De-notified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes willing to pursue coaching for competitive exams such as NEET, JEE Main, CLAT, NDA, TOEFL, SAT, CA-CPT, RRB, Banking, Insurance, State Police, and CPL Courses and have passed Class 12 and have an annual family income must be less than or equal to ₹800,000. Reward: Up to ₹120,000 plus benefits Application: Online Deadline: August 3 Kotak Kanya Scholarship An initiative of the Kotak Education Foundation Eligibility: Girls who have scored 75% or more in Class 12 and have been admitted to the first year of UG programmes for 2025-26 in NIRF/NAAC accredited institutions and have an annual family income of less than ₹600,000 Rewards: ₹1,50,000 a year Application: Online Deadline: August 31 Infosys Foundation STEM Stars Scholarship Programme An initiative of Infosys Foundation. Eligibility: Girls who have completed Class 12 and are enrolled in the first year of UG STEM courses at recognised institutions; second-year students and those pursuing five-year Integrated or Dual Degree programmes; Annual family income must not exceed ₹800,000. Rewards: Up to ₹100,000 a year Application: Online Deadline: September 15 Courtesy:
The Hindu
15-07-2025
- The Hindu
Pendency of ‘untouchability' cases in courts remains over 97%, shows government report
The number of criminal cases registered under the Protection of Civil Rights Act (PCR Act), 1955, for offences related to 'untouchability' has seen a decline, with pendency in courts remaining above 97% and nearly all disposed cases resulting in acquittals, according to the Union government's 2022 annual report on the implementation of the law. The report was recently made public by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The Act is intended to define various manifestations of untouchability, including in social and religious spheres, and prescribe penalties. It mandates an annual review report with inputs from States and Union Territories, covering aspects such as case registration, pendency in police and courts, establishment of special courts and police stations, and inter-caste marriage incentives, among others. According to data provided to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), a total of 13 cases were registered under the PCR Act across the country in 2022 — a decline from 24 in 2021 and 25 in 2020. These cases were reported from Jammu and Kashmir (5), Karnataka (5), Maharashtra (2), and Himachal Pradesh (1). Of the 51 cases pending with police during 2022, including those from previous years, chargesheets were filed in 12. Also Read | Untouchability is being practised in the country in myriad ways, says Madras High Court The report also noted that none of the States or Union Territories that submitted data had declared any area within their jurisdiction as 'untouchability prone'. At the court level, a total of 1,242 cases were pending trial under the Act. Of the 31 cases disposed of by courts in 2022, one resulted in a conviction, while the remaining 30 ended in acquittals. A review of previous annual reports showed that all 37 PCR Act cases disposed of by courts between 2019 and 2021 also ended in acquittals. In contrast, the number of cases registered under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, has risen steadily, with 62,501 cases reported in 2022. Pendency figures under this Act stood at over 17,000 cases with police and over 2.33 lakh with courts across the country. A review of past reports in the PCR Act further revealed that the number of cases registered under this law started reducing after 1989, when the Prevention of Atrocities Act was enacted. The 2022 report also documented that 18,936 inter-caste marriage couples were given financial incentives of ₹2.5 lakh each under the PCR Act across 21 States and Union Territories. Maharashtra reported the highest number of beneficiaries at 4,100, followed by Karnataka (3,519) and Tamil Nadu (2,217). However, several States — including Bihar, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand — did not provide data regarding inter-caste marriage incentives. In addition, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Lakshadweep submitted 'NIL' information with respect to the implementation of the PCR Act, while Manipur did not submit any input despite repeated reminders.
The Wire
11-07-2025
- Politics
- The Wire
NOS Scheme Cap: Parliamentary Panel Flagged Inefficient Use of Funds in March
New Delhi: While the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has issued provisional scholarship awards to less than half of those selected for its National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) for the academic year, 2025-26, citing 'availability of funds', a parliamentary standing committee report had flagged non-utilisation of funds by scholarship schemes run by the ministry in March this year. The report also noted that the annual scholarship granted to students is "not sufficient to meet the present-day expenditure". The report said that the income eligibility criteria fixed for scholarships 'deprives many meritorious candidates' and that despite the large amount of budgetary allocation spent on scholarship schemes "year after year, the scholarship amount released to the eligible students spills over to the next academic year'. Non-utilisation of funds Earlier this week, The Hindu reported that the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment declared the results for the 2025-26 cycle of the National Overseas Scholarship, saying that 106 students had been selected for the 125 annual slots available. But it added that only the first 40 candidates will be given provisional award letters, and the rest will get the letter 'subject to availability of funds'. Leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi criticised the Narendra Modi-led Union government and said that when 'Dalit, backward, or tribal student wants to study, that's when the Modi government suddenly remembers its budget.' However, according to the departmentally-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment's Fifth Report on 'Demands for Grants for the year 2025-26' headed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP P.C. Mohan that was tabled in parliament on March 17, several issues had been flagged relating to scholarship schemes including non-utilisation of funds. In the report, the committee noted that the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, which implements the umbrella scheme SHREYAS (Scholarships for Higher Education for Young Achievers), was not able to 'utilise budgetary allocation fully on any of the four sub-schemes' under it. The SHREYAS scheme includes: National fellowship for SCs, National Overseas Scholarship for SCs, Top Class Education for SCs and Free Coaching for SCs and OBCs. Also read: Less Than 40% of Selected SC, ST and Poor Students To Get Scholarship, Modi Govt Says No Money: Report The report states that according to the information provided by the ministry to the committee, in the financial year 2024-25, while the budgetary estimate and revised estimate for the SHREYAS scheme was Rs 428 crores, only Rs 239.32 cr or 55.91% was the actual expenditure on the scheme. A breakdown of the four sub schemes shows that the Actual Expenditure on the National Fellowship for Scheduled Caste (SC) communities was 65.17% of the budgetary allocation, that of the Free Coaching for SCs and Other Backward Caste (OBC) communities was 64%, Top Class Education for SCs was 33.12%, National Overseas Scholarship for SCs was 58.4%. Budgetary allocation from the report. 'The Committee find that proposals to the tune of Rs 70.46 crore are pending for approval with the Department as late as February, 2025 and proposals to the tune of Rs 93.00 crore under various sub-schemes are expected by 31 March, 2025,' the report said. 'The Committee, therefore, recommend that Department should issue instructions to the Institutions/Organisations to submit the complete proposals within the given time frame to avoid any delay in future. With regard to the proposals of 2024-25 pending with the Department for approval and also the proposals expected by 31 March 2025, the Department may take necessary action for early approval so that funds allocated under this Scheme is utilised fully in this Financial Year. The Committee would like to be apprised in this regard.' Scholarship not sufficient to meet expenditure The committee noted that the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment spent Rs 6,410.09 crore and Rs 7,830.26 crore on various scholarships and other educational schemes in 2022-23 and 2023-24 respectively. In the year 2024-25, the department spent Rs 3,403.51 crore on Educational Scholarship Schemes till February 2025. However, it said that the annual scholarship granted to students is "not sufficient to meet the present-day expenditure" required to get quality education. 'The Committee believe that for the success of any educational scheme, other factors are also significant such as cost of education, availability of good Government Schools/Colleges and teaching staff for its effective implementation. The Committee are of the opinion that the annual scholarship granted to a student for pursuing education is not sufficient to meet the present-day expenditure required to get proper and quality education,' the report said. The committee report recommended that the annual scholarship amount be 'periodically reviewed to contain the inflation so that the Scheme is more fruitful.' 'The Committee would, therefore, like the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment to review the annual scholarship amount granted to each student pursuing various courses along with the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders to achieve the envisaged objectives of the various scholarship schemes of the Department. The Committee would like to recommend that the quantum of Scholarship granted to a student under each Scheme should be periodically reviewed to contain the inflation so that the Scheme is more fruitful,' the report said. Income eligibility depriving meritorious students The committee also noted that during the period 2022-23 to 2024-25, out of the 1,881 applications received for National Overseas Scholarship, 629 were complete and 325 candidates were selected for the scholarship. It said that the total number of slots fixed (125) under the scheme needs to be increased and that the income eligibility criteria 'deprives' meritorious students from availing its benefits. 'Keeping into consideration the number of aspiring candidates for National Overseas Scholarship, the Committee feels that there is a urgent need to increase the number of 125 slots fixed under the Scholarship Scheme each year,' the report said. 'The Committee are of the strong opinion that the income eligibility criteria fixed for the Scholarship Schemes deprives many meritorious candidates from availing the benefits of the Scheme. The Committee, therefore, desire that the income fixed for making candidate eligible for scholarship needs to be reviewed so that more candidates are covered under the Scheme,' it added. In addition, the committee noted that while a large amount of budgetary allocation is spent on scholarship schemes, "year after year the scholarship amount released to the eligible students spills over to the next academic year as the applications from State Governments are received up to the months of February and March." "The Committee are of the view that [the] current system is required to be reviewed as the students should get scholarship within the same academic year so that the education of the student is not disrupted for want of money," the report said. "The Committee would like the Department to give all the handholding support to the state governments to start the process early so that the requisite formalities are completed in time. The Committee expect that the Department should make all out efforts to sensitise the State Governments and Other Implementing Agencies on this aspect and get the issue of last-minute spending resolved," the committee said.
Hans India
11-07-2025
- General
- Hans India
Centre revises SMILE scheme to provide beggars 'life of dignity'
New Delhi: The Centre has revised SMILE, its flagship rehabilitation programme for beggars, with an annual budget of Rs 37 crore, to ensure they move toward self-reliance and a life of dignity. Officials emphasised that the revised SMILE scheme marks a shift from punitive responses to a rights-based, rehabilitative approach that offers structured support to help vulnerable individuals. The updated SMILE (Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) scheme adopts a four-pronged approach: survey and identification, outreach and mobilisation, rescue and shelter, and comprehensive resettlement to promote long-term rehabilitation and restore social dignity to the country's most marginalised groups. The scheme will be implemented in cities focusing on pilgrimages, sites of religious importance, historical landmarks and tourist areas across the country in partnership with the state administration and relevant organisations. According to the revised guidelines of the scheme, religious trusts and shrine boards will also play a significant role in implementing the scheme at pilgrimage and religious sites. The Centre has earmarked Rs 100 crore over three years for the scheme: Rs 30 crore for 2023-24, Rs 33 crore for 2024-25, and Rs 37 crore for 2025-26. The funds will be released in three instalments: 30 per cent for survey and mobilisation, 50 per cent for shelter and rehabilitation, and 20 per cent based on verified progress and reintegration status. The government aims to rehabilitate 2,500 individuals in the first year, 6,000 in the second, and 8,000 in the third. Each shelter home has been allocated an annual budget of Rs 48.7 lakh to cover operational costs, including food, staffing, counselling, skilling, and awareness campaigns. Municipal bodies and district administrations will conduct detailed surveys to profile beneficiaries based on factors such as age, gender, legal status, and health conditions. The data collected will be uploaded to a national portal under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for real-time monitoring. Once identified, individuals will be offered spot counselling and will be mobilised into shelter homes, either existing facilities under the DAY-NULM (Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana National Urban Livelihoods Mission) or rented shelters where required. Each shelter home, with a minimum capacity of 50 individuals, will provide food, clothing, hygiene kits, bedding, toilets, and recreational activities such as yoga.
