Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment posts highest-ever expenditure in FY 2025-26

1. At a Glance

2. Why in the News

3. Background & Evolution

4. Core Static Facts

5. Multi-Dimensional Analysis

Economic / Fiscal - ~14% expenditure jump indicates improved utilisation efficiency, not merely allocation — a recurring Standing Committee concern [S1]. - Reduces criticism that Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan (SCSP/DAPSC) allocations lapse unutilised.

Social - Targets historically marginalised cohorts: SCs (Art. 341), OBCs (Art. 342A), DNTs, Senior Citizens, drug-dependent persons [S1][S4]. - PM-YASASVI scholarships address the post-matric dropout cliff among OBC/EBC/DNT learners [S4].

Legal / Constitutional - Anchored in Art. 46 (DPSP), Art. 338 (NCSC), Art. 338B (NCBC, 102nd CAA, 2018), Art. 342A [general knowledge — uncited]. - PM-AJAY operationalises Article 275(1)-style targeted assistance albeit for SCs through CSS route.

Administrative - CSS design → funds-flow via PFMS to State Implementing Agencies; PM-AJAY portal (pmajay.dosje.gov.in) for real-time tracking [S5]. - Merger of three legacy CSSs reduces fragmentation, aligning with NITI Aayog's CSS rationalisation push [S4].

6. Recent Developments (last 12-18 months)

7. Prelims Hooks

8. Mains Relevance

9. Related Topics to Study Next

10. Common Errors / Trap Areas

11. Sources

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