ISSN : 2693 6356 2019 | Vol 2 | Issue 6 Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, and Other Maharashtra Backward Classes Welfare Programs Dr. Mohan Bhimrao Kamble Assistant Professor, MVP's KPG Arts, Commerce & Science College, Igatpuri, Nashik-422103, Abstract:- Following India's independence in 1947, the government adopted the view that it was crucial to create programs and policies whose primary goal was to improve the lives of the country's Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes through measures such as quotas and welfare programs. This has been a consistent government policy meant to level the playing field for the marginalized Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. This paper's overarching goal is to learn about government assistance programs that target SC/ST/OBC members. Education, employment, housing, transportation, financial aid, and other areas have all benefited from the plans that have been put into place. Reducing poverty and improving contact with various social groups both contribute to economic growth in these areas. Keywords:- Budgeting, distribution, and use of welfare funds for SC/ST/OBC/other disadvantaged groups. 1. Introduction:- 2. India is a social welfare state. The country's initiatives and policies are primarily designed to improve the lives of its citizens, with special attention paid to those who have been historically disenfranchised. The dedication of the Indian government to its citizens is shown in the Constitution's preamble, Directive Principles of State Policy, Fundamental Rights, and several other provisions, such as Articles 38, 39, and 46. Over time, the advancement of the socially and economically marginalized Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) has come to get more attention. The government has adopted a number of measures to guarantee the quick socioeconomic development of SCs, STs, and OBCs by drafting relevant policies necessary for the structure and execution of different welfare initiatives. Specific, community-focused programs are being implemented with allocated resources to improve their quality of life. 3. subsidies, reservations for SC/ST/OBC in employment and educational/training institutions, and other forms of support (Welfare of SC/ST/OBC and Other Backward Classes, n.d.). 4. The population of Scheduled Castes in Tamil Nadu was according to the 1991 Census. 5. 19% of the world's population, or 107.12 million people. The total number of Scheduled Tribes is 6. A total of 5.74 lakhs, or 1.03% of the world's population. There are four main categories of focus for these areas: educational expansion, economic expansion, housing and other programs, the Special Component Plan, and the Tribal Sub Plan. Since their inception, the Special Component Plan (SCP) for SCs and the Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) for STs have received heightened attention. These programs are effective mechanisms for guaranteeing a fair distribution of resources from other, more mainstream development areas to SCs and STs, respectively (Welfare of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes, n.d.). 7. Constitutional Safeguards:- The Preamble of the Constitution of India provides, Social Economic and Political Justice and Equality of Status and opportunity to all citizens. The Directive Principles of state policy as contained in Article 46 of the Constitution provide that “the state shall promote with special care the educational and economic interests of the weaker sections of the people, and particular, of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes, and shall protect them from social injustice and all forms of exploitation”. The Constitution under Article 366(24) specifically defined the term Scheduled Castes. The various safeguards and protective measures sought to ensure for their all round development and freedom from exploitation and social injustice in order that they could from part of the mainstream of the society. The Social and Economic safeguards provided to Scheduled Castes are enumerated in Articles 17, 23, 24 and 25 (2) (b) of the Constitution which enjoins upon the state to provide social safeguards to Scheduled Castes. Article 17 relates to abolition of untouchability being practiced in society. The Parliament enacted the protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 to tackle the problem of untouchability, practiced against Scheduled Castes. Article 23, 24 and 46 form part of the economic safeguards for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Article 15 (4) empowers the state to make special provisions for the advancement of any socially and educationally backward classes of citizen and for SCs. This provision has enabled the state to Reserve seats for SCs in Educational Institutions in general and professional course etc. 8. Reasons for the Backwardness of the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes The SCs, STs and OBCs are in a disadvantaged stage. The main reasons for the backwardness of these communities have been stated as follows: (Policies, Programmes and Schemes, n.d.). Poverty – Poverty is one of the most prevalent conditions that lead to backwardness of these communities. It has been a major impediment within the course of acquisition of education and employment opportunities to sustain their living. The conditions of poverty arise when the per capita income of the individuals is low and is not sufficient to fulfil all the needs and requirements of daily living. These communities are largely affected by the conditions of poverty and scarcity of resources, due to these they are unable to realise the significance of education. They only struggle to look for job opportunities to make ends meet. The main reason that these communities are poverty stricken are, they are landless, with no productive assets and they do not have access to sustainable employment and living conditions. Physical and Social Segregation – These communities are physically and socially isolated from the other communities. The conditions of poverty, illiteracy and backwardness enable them to physically and socially segregate from the other communities. The communication of these individuals with the other social groups is either low or completely absent. Physical segregation has its roots in the socio-cultural segregation, these are based on the rules of purity and pollution and are reflected in the practice of untouchability. In educational institutions, the individuals belonging to SCs and STs are still feeling discriminated against within the classroom setting. In urban areas, the individuals belonging to these communities are given food and water in separate utensils, they are made to sit on the floor and all other things are kept separately that have been used by them. There also have been instances, when these communities are mistreated, beaten and strained by the individuals belonging to other communities, such as, teachers in school or other people in the houses and so forth. Experiencing discriminatory treatment leads to their backwardness. Lack of Information and Awareness – The individuals belonging to these communities either possess low levels of education or no education at all. Mainly, there is lack of information and awareness amongst them. Due to these reasons, they feel vulnerable in communicating with the individuals belonging to upper or middle classes. Awareness and knowledge arouses confidence amongst the individuals to move out of their homes and go into the outside world and interact with people. The lack of information and awareness is considered to be the major impediment that enable these communities to remain in seclusion. Therefore, to alleviate this problem, it is vital to generate awareness amongst these individuals regarding the significance of education and development of literacy skills. Besides, the development of education and literacy skills, it is vital for all individuals to develop effective communication skills. In rural areas, there have been establishment of schools and training centres, where parents, who have not acquired education can send their children to schools. Lack of Employment Opportunities – The individuals in rural areas largely depend upon agriculture as the major occupation and work as daily wage labourers. These kinds of jobs of labourers, generate less income, which is not sufficient to sustain their living conditions. The lack of proper jobs and employment opportunities are largely responsible to lead to their backwardness. When these individuals do not have proper sources of income, they feel backward and hesitant. They are not able to fulfil the daily needs and requirements of nutrition, health care, medical facilities and so forth. These communities are mostly engaged in minority jobs, which do not make provision of any progress or development opportunities for them. The parents are unable to meet the educational and other necessities of their children, such as, books, stationary, uniforms, and so forth, which results in school drop-out. Therefore, lack of employment opportunities, not only leads to the condition of their backwardness, but also their inability to acquire education. 9. Programs Undertaken for the Welfare of the SCs, STs and OBCs:- The programs that are initiated with the main purpose of bringing about the welfare of the SCs, STs and OBCs are primarily initiated by the organizations as well as educational institutions. These have been stated as Project and Equipment Corporation of India (PEC) Limited - Government directives and instructions regarding SCs, STs and OBCs are appropriately observed by the organization. Reduction of one year in each stage of promotion in the qualifying period for the employees of SC and ST groupings of the staff cadre is given under the time scale promotion scheme. Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), Delhi and Kolkata Centres - IIFT has emerged as a major centre of international business education by aligning its teaching, research and training capabilities with its core vision over the years and continuously determined to generate academic superiority. It has been reliably ranked amongst the top 10 Business Schools in India. IIFT follows Government instructions related to reservation; advertisements were unrestricted for promotion in Group A and C under the special recruitment drive for SC, ST, and OBC. Selection Committees for direct recruitment and for departmental promotions have suitable representatives of SC, ST and OBC categories. Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) – This Institute reserves seats for admission to Post Graduate Diploma in Packaging for the deserving candidates belonging to SC and ST communities. There is also a scheme of scholarship for the candidates whose performances are found outstanding during the Post Graduate Diploma in Package Course. Indian Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) - ITPO follows the guidelines of the Government of India that have been issued from time to time for the generation of the welfare of the individuals belonging to SC, ST, and OBC categories. Agriculture and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) - APEDA has not had any kinds of unresolved grievances from any of the SC, ST, OBC or women employees. A committee, including women officers and headed by an officer of the rank of Deputy General Manager, occurs in APEDA for taking into consideration the grievances against sexual harassment of women at the workplace. Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) - Reservation rules, appropriate in respect of SC, ST, and OBC categories are rigorously being followed by the MPEDA. For the purpose of looking after the welfare of these categories, a Liaison Officer has been selected. Representations given by the stated categories through the Liaison Officer are appropriately well thought-out. State Trading Corporation of India Limited (STC) - STC makes provision of the requisite reservations as per the Government Directives for employment in the SC, ST and OBC categories. Reduction in the benchmark criteria for promotion of SC and ST employees is provided. Reduction of five percent in the typing speed in the typing test for promotion of Grade- I to Junior Assistant in Staff Cadre is provided to the employees of reserved category. Special preparations and trainings have been provided to the SC, ST, and OBC employees from time to time. During allotment of residential apartments preserved by the Corporation at New Delhi, SC, ST, OBC and PWD employees are given preference. Welfare of Women – To bring about welfare of women, prevention and redressal of complaints and grievances at the workplace is important. They should be provided with proper assistance and guidance that may lead them towards the right direction. The welfare and economic development of the women should be the primary goal of the individuals, especially belonging to the SCs, STs and OBCs communities. It is vital to implement the measures and schemes to generate awareness amongst these women. They are also encouraged towards enhancement of the basic literacy skills of reading, writing and solving numerical problems. In other words, it is vital to bring about their empowerment. 10. Tenth Five Year Plan:- The Planning Department, Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi has formed a working group under the chairmanship of Secretary, SC and ST to evaluate all the planning schemes relating to the welfare of the SCs, STs, and OBCs on the foundation of zero based budget methodology and make references regarding continuance, adjustment or reduction of on- going schemes, (ii) to review the physical and financial achievements in relation to the targets fixed for the Ninth Five Year Plan, examine reasons for the shortage of blockages and suggest corrective measures for the Tenth Plan, (iii) to evaluate the condition of the prevailing assets and resources required for the proper maintenance and upkeep of these assets, (iv) to complete the policy goals and projects of GNCT of Delhi towards SCs, STs, OBCs and also minorities in the Tenth Five Year Plan and (v) any other issue bearing in mind the significance by the working group (Welfare SC/ST/OBC, n.d.). The working group met twice i.e. on 9th August and 20th August 2001 and considered upon all the plan and non-plan schemes to be taken care of during the Tenth Five Year Plan. Prior to the year 1997, this department was required to look after only the welfare of the SC and ST population of Delhi. But with the acknowledgement of Other Backward Classes as a separate group of population, work relating to the welfare of OBCs which forms quite an enormous portion of the population, was also allocated to this department and thus, the occurrences leading to well-being of about 65% of the population was required to be looked after by this department. Another 16.33% of the total population of Delhi was also assigned to this department meaning thereby that welfare of about 86% of the total population of Delhi is to be looked after by this department which interalia means that the accomplishments of this department, have increased and will increase diversity and, therefore, the requirements of funds in the Tenth Five Year Plan have been significantly improved (Welfare SC/ST/OBC, n.d.). While debating and arguing the approach for the Tenth Five year Plan, the working Group discussed each and every scheme included under the scheme, promoting welfare of the SCs, STs and OBCs and it was felt that in most of the schemes, the presentation was much below the target though, it was attributable to several organizational reasons like scarcity of man power, lack of office accommodation and other reasons like obligation of several situations under different schemes which hindered their operation. The working group, therefore, intensely endorsed that keeping in view the heavy workload with the department, there is a vital need to reinforce the department appropriately with added man power of different levels and to make the additional accommodation available so that the staff would be providing seating space (Welfare SC/ST/OBC, n.d.). Regarding the problems involved in the operation of the schemes, the working group suggested that the process for grant of assistance under different schemes should be simplified to the possible extent and the beneficiaries may be asked to surrender to only the unavoidable documents and in case, some of them, for any reason, are not available, then an affidavit may be accepted in support thereof so that no delay is brooked and the assistance is dispensed as early as possible (Welfare SC/ST/OBC, n.d.). The social and economic deprivation amongst the Scheduled Castes had been common during the time of pre and post- Independence. Therefore, there was a requirement of number of distinctive safety measure policies. One of that is, reservation policy in the Government recruitment. The objective of the reservation policy is to eliminate the community and financial inequalities which are prevalent in the society (Karade, 2008). 11. Schemes under the Tenth Five Year Plan:- The welfare of the Scheduled Castes and Tribes has been given special consideration in the five year plans. The development planning initiated in 1951 through the first plan (1951-56) envisioned that the programmes under various segments of progress would assist all the sections of the population including, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Castes and Minorities, but inappropriately, it never occurred so. The second plan (1956-61) undertook to make sure that the assistances of economic development accumulate more and more to the moderately less privileged classes of the society to reduce inequality. The third plan (1961-66) encouraged larger equality of opportunity and a decrease in differences in income and wealth and the even distribution of economic power. The fourth and fifth plan (1967-78) envisaged the source objective as a rapid increase in the regularity of living conditions of the individuals through procedures which also encourage equivalence and social justice. One of the significant structures of the subsequent annual plan (1970-80) was the initiation of the distinctive device of special component plan (SPC) for Scheduled Castes to make sure that these groups receive their due share of benefits from the other development sectors. The sixth plan (1980-85) marked a shift in the approach to the development of Scheduled Castes. Special prominence was laid on the application of the recently initiated SCP for the Scheduled Castes. The seventh plan (1985- 90), a considerable increase in the flow of funds for the development of Scheduled Castes under SCP from state plans, central plan, and special central assistance (SCA). Precedence in seventh plan was to give to the educational development of Scheduled Castes. The major objective of the eight plan (1992-97) was to concentrate upon the determination and to bridge the gap between the development of the Scheduled Castes, other backward castes and minority and other sections of the society. It was envisioned that all forms of oppression of Scheduled Castes suppression of their rights, untouchability, non-payment of minimum wages and so forth would be disregarded, so as to enable them to avail the benefits of all developmental efforts. For the economic development of the Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Castes and Minorities. 12. Central Government Schemes:- It is the constitutional obligation of the government to safeguard the concentration of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes from social inequality and injustice. The central Government provides various schemes for the social, economic and educational upliftment of the socio- economically backward sections of the society. Some of the significant centrally supported schemes are: 1. Coaching and training for various competitive examinations, such as, IAS, IPS and so forth, is considered essential to lead to improvement in the representation of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in various services and employment opportunities. 2. Initiation of post-matric scholarships are made available to the students in higher education. There have been reservation of seats for these individuals in higher educational institutions and availability of post-matric scholarships facilitate their learning. 3. Launching of vocational training programs in different regions and educational centres in the regions where, the rate of literacy is low, for the primary purpose of promotion of female literacy in tribal areas. 4. Building of the hostels for providing residential facilities to the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes girls studying in schools, colleges and universities. 5. Financial support to the reputed social science research institutions for research in development and problems of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. 6. Making provision of textbooks to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes students of medical and engineering courses, and 7. Scholarships and passage grants for acquisition of higher education abroad. 9. Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship:- The Rajiv Gandhi fellowship for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes is implemented and financed by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and Ministry of Tribal Affairs. This scheme is made available to the candidates who belong to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes communities and who possess the aspiration to pursue higher studies such as, regular and full time M. Phil and Ph. D degrees in sciences, humanities, social sciences and engineering and technology. There are 1333 slots for the Scheduled Castes and 667 slots for the Scheduled Tribes candidates every year for all the subjects. The commission is making provision of financial assistance to the universities for the institution of a special cell for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. The purpose of these cells is to make provision of assistance to the universities in putting into operation the reservation policy. With the implementation of the reservation policy with regards to the admittance of the students and the employment of teaching and non-teaching staff at various levels. 10. Tribal Welfare Programmes:- The Constitution of India has provided for the development of the Scheduled Tribes and Castes which are in a backward condition and, thus these castes were made appropriate for obtaining various privileges. A tribal welfare department was inaugurated and launched in 1951. Its work was not projected to supersede, but to supplement the general development programmes undertaken by the Government through such organisations as the national extension service, community development programmes and integrated rural development programmes. During the plan periods, the Central Government sponsored the following schemes: 1. Tribal development blocks. 2. Tribal co-operation societies. 3. Hostel for tribal girls. 4. Post-Matric scholarships for tribal students. 5. Coaching and pre-examination training for competitive examinations. 6. Research, training and special projects. 11. Tribal Research Institutes:- The research institutes have been established in various states to make a thorough study of tribes and their problems. The tribal communities usually reside in the hilly areas, where they are unaware of various aspects and unfamiliar with different types of modern and innovative techniques. They normally depend upon the natural resources and the environmental conditions to provide for themselves. Making of various kinds of handicrafts, practicing of agriculture and farming, and barter system are the occupations which they get engaged in. The tribal communities lead a simple life and it is vital to implement measures to lead to their development. 12. Tribal Co-operation Marketing Development Federation of India:- Tribal Co-operation Marketing Development Federation of India was established by the Government of India in 1987 with the major objective of making provision of marketing assistance and remunerative prices to the Scheduled Tribes communities for their minor forest produce and surplus, agricultural produce and to discourage them away from exploitative private traders and middlemen. It is vital to make sure that tribal communities are not exploited or they are made to get involved in any kinds of inappropriate acts. They should be able to generate surplus and enhance their productivity. The federation is a national level co- operative apex body functioning under the Multi State Cooperative Act, 1984. The authorized share capital of the tribal co-operative is Rs.100 cores. 13. Poverty Alleviation Programmes:- The problem of poverty is severe amongst the individuals belonging to Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes communities. This problem is a major hindrance within the course of their progress and development, therefore, it is vital to make sure the implementation of poverty alleviation programs is carried out in an appropriate manner. The poverty alleviation programmes are put into operation both in rural and urban areas since the 1980s and they have not only provided assistance to the poverty stricken people to rise above the poverty line, but also brought down the poverty rate in an effective manner. Other Backward Classes have been benefitted to a large extent from these programmes. Article 39-A of the Constitution of India provides equal justice, and free legal support to make provision of equal opportunities for securing justice to the citizens who are economically poverty stricken or have other disabilities. The C.P.C and Cr. P. C also provide for free legal assistance to the individuals who are residing in destitute conditions. The advocates Act, 1961 has also controlled provisions for legal assistance and for the establishment of legal assistance committees. The Legal Service Authorities Act, 1987 has been enacted to provide legal assistance services to the poverty stricken and the needy people of society. Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 makes provision of adequate facilities including legal assistance to be provided to the persons subjected to any disability arising out of untouchability In enactment of the provision of this Act, 20 States and Union Territories have introduced the scheme of making provision of free legal assistance to the Scheduled Castes and socio- economically backward sections of the society. These states and union territories are Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Goa, Daman & Diu, Delhi and Pondicherry. The legal services are provided to the entitled persons in the state of Rajasthan under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, Rajasthan State Legal Service Authority Rules, 1995 and Rajasthan State Legal Services Regulation, 1999. During the calendar year 2005, 1048 Scheduled Castes and 1131 Scheduled Tribes were assisted by the legal services in the State Under the Rule 12 of the Punjab Legal Service Authority Act, 1987, free legal assistance is provided to the members of the Scheduled Castes irrespective of their income. During the year, free legal assistance was provided to 249 Scheduled Caste persons by the Punjab Legal Services Authority. Besides the above methods and processes to bring about their rapid development, the Constitution of India also makes available many provisions for the security of the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes  Social Justice:- Social Justice is the equal treatment to all citizens without any social distinction. The Government is implementing various schemes/programmes for socio-economic development of Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Vimukta Jati & Nomadic Tribes (VJNT), Other Backward Classes (OBC), Special Backward Classes (SBC), minorities, divyang, senior citizens, etc.. 14. Scheduled Caste Component Scheme (SCCS):- During 2021-22 under Scheduled Caste Component Scheme (SCCS), in all 272 schemes (195 State level & 77 district level) are being implemented. Sectorwise proposed fund and expenditure incurred under SCCS is given inA Sectorwise proposed funds and expenditure incurred under SCCS Sector 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 Proposed Funds Expenditure Incurred Proposed Funds Expenditure Incurred Proposed Funds Expenditure Incurred A) State level schemes 6,432.00 3,828.71 6,939.6 3,746.9 7,906.6 1,663.3 Agriculture & allied activities 222.16 91.97 158.58 57.28 180.35 2.08 Rural development 112.70 72.54 203.90 318.96 193.00 2.34 Energy 0.00 0.00 70.00 0.00 70.00 0.00 Industry & minerals 60.00 18.79 45.00 21.70 68.20 0.00 Transport & communication 250.00 150.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 General economic services 0.00 0.00 5.00 1.50 2.00 0.00 Social & community services 5,555.64 3,404.98 6,345.3 3,215.0 7,194.1 1,586.8 General services 11.50 0.00 11.50 33.54 23.50 0.38 Other programmes 220.00 90.43 100.00 97.81 175.00 72.85 B) District level schemes 2,776.00 2,560.81 2,728.64 2,715.55 2,728.65 691.45 Agriculture & allied activities 351.92 329.79 351.14 342.71 345.9 122.63 Energy 134.47 146.12 152.81 164.72 154.1 63.80 Industry & minerals 10.90 8.49 8.59 0.11 7.18 0.10 Transport & communication 68.56 31.25 71.70 67.03 76.83 3.54 Social & community services 2,126.87 1,984.91 2,062.7 2,068.6 2,062. 491.23 Innovative schemes 83.28 60.25 81.67 72.33 81.88 10.15 Total (A + B) 9,208.00 6,389.52 9,668.00 6,461.84 10,635.01 2,355.18 Note:- Figures may not add up due to rounding + uptoJanuary Source : Commissionerate of Social Welfare, Pune 15. Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj scholarship for SC students for abroad studies:- GoM is implementing Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj scholarship for SC students to pursue higher studies abroad. Under the scheme during 2020-21 an amount of 24.00 crore was disbursed to 128 beneficiaries and during 2021-22 upto December, an amount of 32.99 crore was disbursed to 171 beneficiaries. 16. Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Swadhar Yojana:- The scheme has been initiated for students belonging to Scheduled Castes and Neo-Buddhist, who got admission in various courses from class XI th onwards, but who did not get or have not taken admission in the government hostels. Under the scheme, financial assistance through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) is provided to students for food, shelter, educational material, subsistence allowance and other necessary facilities depending on educational stream and place of residence. Performance of the Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Swadhar Yojana is given in Performance of the Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Swadhar Yojana Particulars 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22+ Beneficiary students (no.) 17,100 22,544 4,550* Expenditure incurred (` Crore) 57.55 74.96 23.21 Source: Commissionerate of Social Welfare, Pune +upto December 17. Margin money for Scheduled Castes and Neo- Buddhist community in Standup India Scheme of GoI:- The Standup India scheme has been introduced by GoI in 2015 to provide employment opportunities to the new entrepreneurs belonging to Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes and women. The entrepreneurs have to bear 25 per cent of the total project cost and remaining 75 per cent amount as loans that is guaranteed by Small Industries Development Bank of India. Of the 25 per cent self-share, 15 per cent amount is being provided by GoM under margin money scheme after the project approval and 10 per cent self-share is borne by entrepreneurs. During 2020-21 subsidy of ` 6.83 crore was disbursed to 83 entrepreneurs. 18. Development of SC and Neo- Buddhist wastis in rural areas:- The scheme is being implemented for overall development of SC and Neo- Buddhist wastes in rural areas by providing basic facilities such as drinking water supply, internal roads, drainage facilities, electricity, roads connecting the habitats, community hall, etc. There are 37,604 such listed wastis in the rural areas of the State. During 2020-21, expenditure incurred was of ` 818.39 crore. During 2021-22 upto December, expenditure of ` 190.59 crore was incurred. 19. Sahityaratna Lokshahir Annabhau Sathe Nagari Wasti Sudhar Yojan:- Under the scheme, facilities such as works for construction of bituminous/cement concrete roads, construction of drainage, repairing of well, drinking water facilities, public toilet, library, gymnasium, kindergarten, electric lights, etc. are undertaken in SC and Neo- Buddhist wasti located in municipal corporation and municipal council areas. During 2020-21, expenditure of crore was incurred. During 2021-22 upto December, expenditure of ` 264.16 crore was incurred. 20. Sant Rohidas Charmodyog & Charmakar Development Corporation Ltd.:- The corporation is set up for welfare of charmakar community and is authorised as channelising agency to implement various schemes of National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC) in the State. The authorised share capital of this corporation is 73.21 crore and paid- up share capital is ` 306.21 crore (100 per cent share of GoM). The functions of the corporation are to arrange procurement and supply of raw material for those engaged in the leather industries and to make necessary arrangements for production and to render necessary assistance and act as an agent for sale of finished products in domestic as well as international markets. Performance of Sant Rohidas Charmodyog and Charmakar Development Corporation Ltd. is given in Table Performance of Sant Rohidas Charmodyog & Charmakar Development Corporation Ltd Particulars 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 + Beneficiaries (no.) 192 143 76 Amount disbursed (` Lakh) 21.22 13.70 7.50 Source : Sant Rohidas Charmodyog & Charmakar Development Corporation Ltd. + upto December 21. Sahityaratna Lokshahir Annabhau Sathe Development Corporation Ltd.:- GoM has established Sahityaratna Lokshahir Annabhau Sathe Development Corporation Ltd. for economic, educational & social development of Matang community & 12 sub castes and it works as channelising agency of NSFDC in the State. The share capital of this corporation is 300 crore, of which 51 per cent share is of GoM & 49 per cent is of GoI. Performance of ahityaratna Lokshahir Annabhau Sathe Development Corporation Ltd. is given in Table Performance of Sahityaratnya Lokshahir Annabhau Sathe Development Corporation Ltd Particulars 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22+ Beneficiaries (no.) 1,232 760 345 Amount disbursed (` Lakh) 280.01 238.11 34.50 Source: Sahityaratna Lokshahir Annabhau Sathe Development Corporation Ltd + upto December 22. Mahatma Phule Backward Class Development Corporation Ltd.:- Mahatma Phule Backward Class Development Corporation Ltd. is set up for economic development of SC and Neo-Buddhist communities. The corporation works as channelising agency of National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation and National Safai Karmachari Finance and Development Corporation in the State. The authorised share capital of this corporation is 632.64 crore, of which 51 per cent share is of GoM and 49 per cent share is of GoI. Performance of Mahatma Phule Backward Class Development Corporation Lt Performance of Mahatma Phule Backward Class Development Corporation Ltd. Particulars 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 + Beneficiaries (no.) 11,093 1,327 269 Amount disbursed (` Lakh) 5,413.00 1,614.11 734.29 Source: Mahatma Phule Backward Class Development Corporation Lt + upto December 23. Tribal Component Scheme:- The Constitution of India has provided for the development of the Scheduled Tribes and Castes which are in a backward condition and, thus these castes were made appropriate for obtaining various privileges. A tribal welfare department was inaugurated and launched in 1951. Its work was not projected to supersede, but to supplement the general development programmes undertaken by the Government through such organisations as the national extension service, community development programmes and integrated rural development programmes During 2021-22 under Tribal Component Scheme (TCS), about 330 schemes (284 State level & 146 district level) are being implemented. Sectorwise proposed funds and expenditure incurred under TCS is given in Sectorwise proposed funds and expenditure incurred under TCS Sector 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 Proposed funds Expenditur e incurred Propose d funds Expenditur e incurred Propose d funds Expenditur e incurred A) State level schemes 6,329.89 4,716.93 7,559.3 5,500.37 7,807.7 3,129.55 Agriculture & allied activities 118.64 42.09 150.99 48.09 130.43 9.95 Rural development 324.89 199.99 782.41 691.49 376.00 233.90 Irrigation & flood control 50.00 51.85 25.00 3.30 75.00 0.00 Energy 310.00 132.00 237.80 167.00 170.00 156.00 Industry & minerals 10.00 0.00 9.00 1.80 6.00 1.37 Transport & communication 326.02 196.56 456.32 376.06 440.00 63.81 Social & community services 5,190.34 4,094.44 5,897.51 4,212.62 6,610.14 2,664.51 B) District level schemes 2,201.11 2,104.59 1,925.91 1,904.64 1,858.78 378.15 Agriculture & allied activities 284.32 251.47 231.50 263.70 226.72 34.57 Rural development 350.96 321.13 145.25 115.98 355.06 109.28 Irrigation & flood control 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Energy 124.96 122.04 114.85 133.60 126.53 8.95 Industry & minerals 4.70 1.22 1.30 0.02 1.17 0.00 Transport & communication 254.39 252.93 240.36 236.13 225.54 21.65 Social & community services 1,181.79 1,155.79 1,192.65 115.21 923.76 203.70 Total (A + B) 8,531.00 6,821.52 9,484.94 7,405.01 9,666.35 3,507.70 Source : Tribal Development Department, GoM + upto December  Ashram Schools There are 497 government residential ashram schools for tribal students in hilly and remote areas of the State. Apart from this, there are 556 aided ashram schools in the State. Meal, residence, educational material and other facilities are provided free of cost to tribal students admitted in ashram schools. Since 2017-18, the cost of educational materials and equipments are being deposited directly in the bank accounts of students. Information of ashram schools is given in Table Information of ashram schools Particulars 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22+ Gov. Ashram Schools Schools (no.) 500 500 497 Beneficiary students (no.) 1,83,546 1,91,713 1,90,608 Expenditure incurred (` Crore) 1,199.35 806.54 631.02 Source : Tribal Development Department, Go + upto December  Government hostels for tribal students Government is providing hostel facility to tribal students, pursuing higher studies at taluka, district and division level. Accommodation, food, uniforms, educational material and other facilities are provided free of cost to the students admitted in these hostels. The cost of bedding material, books, educational material, etc. are being deposited directly into the bankaccounts of students since 2017-18. Information of Government hostels for tribal students is given in Table Information of Government hostels for tribal students Source : Tribal Development Department, GoM + upto December  Education to Tribal students in renowned English medium schools To encourage tribal students to pursue studies in renowned residential English medium schools GoM has launched the scheme from 2010-11. Maximum ` 70,000 per student per year is being given to these schools by GoM for providing education and residential facilities to these students. Information of education to tribal students in renowned English medium schools is given in Table Particulars 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 + Gov. Ashram Schools Schools (no.) 500 500 497 Beneficiary students (no.) 1,83,546 1,91,713 1,90,608 Expenditure incurred (` Crore) 1,199.35 806.54 631.02 Aided Ashram Schools Schools (no.) 556 556 556 Beneficiary students (no.) 2,33,45 2,41,468 2,42,916 Expenditure incurred (` Crore) 1,088.98 1,097.90 826.11 Source : Tribal Development Department, GoM + upto December  Khawti Anudan Yojana: Khawti Anudan Yojana was implemented in the State upto 2013-14 to provide assistance to economically weaker family. Khawti Anudan Yojana was reintroduced in 2020 for economically weaker ST families to tackle economic situation arised due to covid-19 pendamic and is being implemented in the form of 100 per cent grant. During 2020-21, expenditure of ` 486.00 crore was incurred.  Scholarship for ST students for abroad studies: GoM has started this scholarship scheme for ST students to pursue higher studies abroad. During 2020-21, expenditure of ` 1.24 crore was incurred on two beneficiaries. During 2021-22 upto December, expenditure of ` 1.86 crore was incurred on five beneficiaries. 24. Welfare of Other Backward Bahujan: Various development programmes are being implemented by GoM for Particulars 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 + Government hostels (no.) 495 495 487 Beneficiary students (no.) 54,150 48,647 44,262 Expenditure incurred (` Crore) 353.24 161.70 187.73 upliftment of the weaker sections of other backward bahujan (OBC, Special Economical Backward Class (SEBC), VJNT, SBC). During 2020-21, expenditure of ` 2,387.17 crore was incurred. During 2021-22 upto December, expenditure of ` 2,307.55 crore was incurred.  Vasantrao Naik Tanda/Wasti Sudhar Yojan : The scheme is implemented for overall development of VJNT and SBC habitats by providing basic facilities such as electrification, drinking water supply, internal roads, drainage, toilets, community hall/library, etc. During 2021-22 upto December, expenditure of ` 13.20 crore was incurred.  Scholarship for VJNT, OBC and SBC students for abroad studies: GoM has started scholarship scheme for VJNT, OBC and SBC students to pursue higher studies abroad. During 2021-22 upto December, expenditure of ` 52.00 lakh was incurred  Maharashtra State Other Backward Class Finance and Development Corporation Ltd. Maharashtra State Other Backward Class Finance and Development Corporation Ltd.has been established for the welfare of OBCs in the State. The authorised share capital of this corporation is 250 crore and paid up capital is 161.54 crore (100 per cent share of GoM). This corporation also works as channelising agency of National Backward Class Finance and Development Corporation Ltd. The Corporation implements schemes such as seed money, direct loan scheme, individual loan interest reimbursement, group loan interest reimbursement, etc. Information of the Maharashtra State Other Backward Class Finance and Development CorporationLtd. is given ins Information of Maharashtra State Other Backward Class Finance and Development Corporation Ltd Particulars 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 + Beneficiaries (no.) 78 209 259 Amount disbursed (` lakh) 28.76 197.36 216.99 Source: Maharashtra State Other Backward Class Finance and Development Corporation Ltd. + upto December 25. 26. Minority Development: Various schemes for the development of minority community are being implemented in the State. During 2020-21, expenditure of 235.44 crore was incurred. During 2021- 22 upto December, expenditure of 99.43 crore was incurred. Wasti /Area development schemes for minorities Wasti/ area development scheme are being implemented for minorities in the State. Expenditure incurred under wasti/ area development schemes for minorities is given in Table Expenditure incurred under wasti/area development schemes for minorities Scheme Expenditure incurred (`Crore) 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22+ Wasti/ Area development urban areas 25.13 21.69 15.58 Wasti/ Area development rural areas 22.16 17.19 0.00 Source: Minority Development Department, GoM  Higher Education Scholarship for Minority students : Annual tuition fees of minority students studying in any educational course or 25,000 (for medical and semi-medical courses / technical and vocational courses) and ` 5,000 (for postgraduate courses in Arts, Commerce and Science degree and post graduate courses) whichever is less is given as scholarship. During 2020-21, expenditure of ` 48.70 crore was incurred. During 2021- 22 upto December, expenditure of 56.10 crore was incurred.  Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karykra : Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karykram is being implemented in 24 districts of the State toraise overall living standard of minority Community. During 2020-21, expenditure of 33.20 crore was incurred. During 2021-22 upto December, expenditure of ` 2.68 crore was incurred.  Girls Hostels for Minority Communitie: Under the 'Girls hostels for minority community' scheme, hostels are being setup in 43 cities of 25 districts for girls students pursuing higher education. During 2020-21, expenditure of 5.28 crore was incurred. During 2021-22 upto December, expenditure of ` 1.50 crore was incurred.  Maulana Azad Alpasankhyak Arthik Vikas Mahamandal Ltd: Maulana Azad Alpasankhyak Arthik Vikas Mahamandal Ltd. has been set up for welfare of minority community in the State. The authorised share capital of this Mahamandal is 500 crore and paid-up capital is ` 483.19 crore (100 per cent share of GoM). This Mahamandal works as channelising agency for National Minorities Development & Finance Corporation. During 2020-21 education loan worth ` 1,568.96 lakh was given to 1,934 students. During 2021-22, upto December, education loan worth ` 781.24 lakh was given to 890 students.  Welfare of Divyang : Various schemes for divyang are being implemented by GoM to identify their potentials, develop their skills, give them equal opportunities and protect their rights so as to empower & involve them in the main stream of the society. During 2020- 21, expenditure of 453.96 crore was incurred. During 2021-22 upto December, expenditure of 362.75 crore was incurred. 27. Annasaheb Patil Aarthik Magas Vikas Mahamandal Ltd. Annasaheb Patil Aarthik Magas Vikas Mahamandal Ltd. is established by the State to provide employment and self-employment opportunities to economically backward educated unemployed youth. Information of Annasaheb Patil Aarthik Magas Vikas Mahamandal Ltd. is given in Table Information of Annasaheb Patil Aarthik Magas Vikas Mahamandal Ltd. Particulars 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22+ (Lakh) Beneficiary/Amunt Group No.Disbursed Beneficiary/Amount Group No Disbursed Beneficiary/ Group No. Amount Disbursed Individual Interest 7,584 3,246.83 7,176 5400.23 9,504 8,951.12 Group Loan Interest 4 3.33 28 33.61 45 98.06 Group Project Loan 14 140.00 7 70.00 8 70.00 Source : Annasaheb Patil Arthik Magas Vikas Mahamandal Ltd + upto December 28. 29. Social Security: Various schemes for social security are being implemented in the State. During Covid-19 lockdown period financial assistance under various social security schemes for the period of April and May 2021 has been provided to beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) inadvance in the month of April, 2021. Information of important social security schemes is given in Table. Beneficiaries and expenditure incurred on important social security schemes Scheme 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22+ No. of Expenditure beneficiaries incurred (Crore) No. of Expenditure beneficiaries incurred (Crore) No. of beneficiaris (lakh) Expenditure incurred (` Crore) Sanjay Gandhi 10.82 1,161.50 12.31 1,509.5 12.39 987.51 Shravanbal Seva Rajya 21.74 1,896.91 24.74 2,836.5 24.80 1,873.38 Indira Gandhi National 11.61 299.83 12.08 419.96 11.82 195.26 Indira Gandhi National 0.67 22.93 0.76 35.21 0.80 19.14 Indira Gandhi National 0.08 3.81 0.09 4.28 0.09 0.29 National Family Benefit 0.11 27.45 0.14 27.41 0.03 20.15 Source : Social Justice and Special Assistance Department, GoM +upto December 30. Human Development And Sustainable Development Goal;- Equitable distribution of development benefits & opportunities, better living environment and empowerment of vulnerable sections of society translates into human development. Human development is about creating an environment that enables people to develop to their full potential, lead productive & creative lives in accord with their needs & interests and participation in the process of decision making for the welfare of society. According to Subnational Human Development Index Report of United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) (4.0), Human Development Index (HDI) of India for 2019 was 0.646 and that of Maharashtra was 0.697. Kerala had highest (0.782) HDI in India for 2019 As per Maharashtra Human Development Report, 2012 the HDI of the State was 0.752. Mumbai (Mumbai City and Mumbai Suburban) ranked first with HDI 0.841, followed by Pune (0.814). Nandurbar (0.604) had the lowest rank. District wise HDI as per Maharashtra Human Development Report. 31. Maharashtra Human Development Programme Maharashtra Human Development Programme is being implemented in rural and all „C‟ class municipal council areas of 125 most backward talukas. Under the programme, various schemes focusing on improvement in education, health and income are being implemented. Considering socio-economic, geographical conditions and local needs of the talukas, taluka specificschemes are formulated. During 2021-22 upto November expenditure of ` 468.33 crore was incurred. The progress of various schemes implemented under Maharashtra Human Development Programme. 32. Conclusion Development of the Scheduled Castes is the mutual responsibility of the Central as well as the State Government and Union Territory administration. The State Governments have separate departments to look after the welfare of the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes. Their administrative set up, however, varies from State to State. A number of voluntary organizations were established to encourage the welfare of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. To enhance the well-being and progress of these communities there have been establishment of number of schemes. The schemes have been concerned with providing scholarships, loans and financial assistance to the individuals to ensure they obtain education in reputed educational institutions. Housing and hostel facilities are regarded as imperative, as they migrate from one region to another. There have been schemes to generate enthusiasm and interest amongst these students in sports. The primary motive of the schemes is to make sure that these individuals do not experience detrimental consequences as a result of poverty, illiteracy, unemployment and homelessness. They primarily focus upon alleviating the conditions of poverty and backwardness, ensure that these communities are able to communicate with the other groups of people, they are able to acquire education and generate awareness amongst themselves, obtain employment opportunities and are able to obtain proper housing and shelters in order to lead to elimination of the problem of homelessness. 33. References 1. National Commission for Scheduled Caste Govt. of India Report 2016 2. Scheduled Caste Sub Plan: Planning Commission Guidelines for Implementation 2006 3. NCSC Report 2016 : Scheduled Castes Sub Plan (SCSP) 4. Standing Committee of National Monitoring Committee on Education Development of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Ministry of Human Resource Development:-2012 5. Planning Commission Task Force‟s Guidelines on SCSP and TSP and Recommendations – 2010 6. Economic Survey of Maharashtra 2021-22 7. Commissionerate of Social Welfare, Pune 8. Economic Survey of Maharashtra 2020-21 9. https://mahades.maharashtra.gov. in/ESM1920/chapter/Marathi/es m2021_m.pdf 10. https://mahades.maharashtra.gov. in/publications.do?pubId=ESM 11. https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/defa ult/files/2019- 12. https://socialjustice.gov.in/ 13. http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRel https://mahades.maharashtra.gov.in/ESM1920/chapter/Marathi/esm2021_m.pdf https://mahades.maharashtra.gov.in/ESM1920/chapter/Marathi/esm2021_m.pdf https://mahades.maharashtra.gov.in/ESM1920/chapter/Marathi/esm2021_m.pdf https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2019- https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2019- https://socialjustice.gov.in/ http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx ease.aspx relid=114081 14. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki /Scheduled_Castes_and_Schedul ed_Tribes. 15. Special components plan for SC & ST-2013-14. 16. Annual Report 2013- 14, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment „Government of India. 17. Planning Commission Report 2012-13. 18. 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