HYDERABAD, FEBRUARY 02, 2025: Union Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Sunday addressed a press conference in Hyderabad highlighting the inclusive nature of the Union Budget 2025-26 and its potential to drive economic growth.
The Minister emphasized that the budget effectively caters to all sections of society, including the middle class, Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and farmers. He further commended the new tax structure, stating that it substantially reduces the tax burden on the middle class.
Mr Athawale also underscored the significant boost in the allocation of funds for the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment in the Union Budget 2025-26, reflecting the government’s commitment to promoting social justice and supporting marginalized communities.
The key budget allocations for the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment are as follows:
Total Ministry Budget: ₹14,886 crore (+1.4% increase)
SC Welfare Allocation: ₹1,68,478 crore (₹2,960 crore increase, +2%)
ST Welfare Allocation: ₹1,29,249.75 crore (₹4,340.8 crore increase)
These allocations reaffirm the government’s dedication to social upliftment and economic empowerment of marginalized communities across the nation, the minister added.
