The Union Ministry of Minority Affairs has returned ₹2,064 crore from the ₹3,094 crore budget meant for scholarships for minority students. The reason cited is the absence of approvals to continue these schemes beyond 2021-22. This was revealed in the ministry’s Action Taken Report submitted to a parliamentary panel reviewing the 2024-25 Demands for Grants.
The scholarships, including pre-matric and post-matric programs, aimed to economically empower students from six centrally notified minority communities. Since the schemes have not been cleared for continuation, no targets were set. Implementation has been stalled since 2022-23.
The ministry says it is seeking approvals to extend the schemes. It plans to align them with similar programs run by other central ministries. The proposals are still awaiting clearance from the competent authority.
Earlier, the parliamentary panel expressed concern over the large surrender of funds. It stressed that states and Union Territories must complete procedural work quickly. They are responsible for executing these schemes on the ground.
The panel also noted the discontinuation of major initiatives. These include the National Fellowship, National Overseas Scholarship, Free Coaching, and Residential Education programs. Similar schemes continue without disruption under other ministries such as Social Justice and Empowerment, Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, and Tribal Affairs.
The committee warned that freezing minority scholarships is depriving many deserving students of higher education. It said all deprived sections must get equal access to educational support. Minority students should receive benefits comparable to other disadvantaged groups.
It also pointed out that the ministry has not acted on earlier recommendations. Budget funds remain unused, while delays in approvals widen the gap in educational opportunities. Many aspiring scholars from minority communities remain in uncertainty and financial hardship.
