The Minister Launches J&K Chapter of ‘Dr Ambedkar Chamber of Commerce’
JK News Today
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh today presided over the launching ceremony of the Jammu & Kashmir chapter of the “Dr. Ambedkar Chamber of Commerce” here.
The Minister called for developing entrepreneurship mindset and an investment-oriented approach among Scheduled Caste (SC) community and other weaker sections of society to avail of schemes rolled out by the Narendra Modi Government.
Addressing the gathering in Jammu University, Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that the Government has created a wholesome system for weaker sections, including SCs and STs for handholding and supporting them right from the early age. He underlined that members of marginalized sections should move beyond reliance solely on government employment and actively explore opportunities in entrepreneurship and enterprise development.
Highlighting the initiatives of the Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said that a series of targeted schemes have been introduced with a central focus on the upliftment of weaker sections of society. He termed Jan Dhan scheme as a financial inclusion initiative, and described MUDRA loan scheme as a transformative step in enabling access to credit. He also referred to the Vishwakarma Yojana, aimed at preserving traditional crafts while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that statistical evidence reflects the positive impact of these schemes on the socio-economic advancement of Dalits and other marginalized groups. He noted a visible rise in aspirations among these communities, pointing out that candidates from humble backgrounds are increasingly succeeding in competitive examinations, including civil services. He also referred to the elevation of Adivasi lady as President of India, a reflection of social empowerment.
The Minister emphasized the importance of creating greater awareness about government welfare schemes to ensure maximum outreach and benefit. He highlighted initiatives such as Vigyan Jyoti, aimed at promoting scientific temper and innovation among girls.
Referring to regional efforts, Dr. Jitendra Singh mentioned Khadi promotion camps organized in Udhampur district, where subsidies amounting to 50 crore rupees were distributed in a single day. He noted that beneficiaries largely came from the Kashmir Valley and stressed the need to expand awareness about such opportunities.
Dr. Jitendra Singh further listed several schemes supporting marginalized communities, including pre-matric and post-matric scholarships for SCs, STs, and OBCs, Dr. Ambedkar scholarships, National Fellowship for OBCs in biotechnology, inclusivity grants under the National Research Foundation (Anusandhan), Rozgar Melas providing employment opportunities, Venture Capital Fund for SCs and OBCs, and the Ambedkar Innovation and Incubation Mission.He also highlighted region-specific initiatives such as the Aroma Mission, which provides alternative and sustainable livelihood opportunities, and Science Technology Innovation Hubs, where a significant proportion of beneficiaries are from SC communities.
Later, speaking to the media, Dr. Jitendra Singh announced that the Vande Bharat Express service between Jammu and Srinagar will commence from 30 April. He informed that the number of coaches in the train has also been increased.
The Minister expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for prioritizing infrastructure development in Jammu & Kashmir. He noted that while the rail network had reached Jammu in 1962, expansion remained stalled for several decades. Renewed efforts in recent years have accelerated progress, resulting in improved connectivity and integration of the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country.
