On April 14, the nation celebrates the birth anniversary of Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar as a symbol of social justice and equality. Dr. Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, was not only the designer of India’s democratic framework but also the voice of the marginalized sections of society who were sidelined for centuries. As the country moves toward the goal of “Developed India 2047,” it is no longer enough to merely remember Ambedkar’s thoughts and contributions—we must also implement his principles through policy. It is a matter of great satisfaction that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Central Government has made concrete efforts to realize Dr. Ambedkar’s dreams.
A Legacy of Long Neglect
For years in India, political discourse attempted to politically limit and socially ignore Babasaheb. He was neither given due space in policy nor in cultural narratives. His ideas were confined to books, whereas today they have become the foundation of national planning.
In independent India’s first election, organized efforts were made to defeat him. He was also sidelined in Nehru’s cabinet, forcing him to resign. Denying him the Bharat Ratna for four decades after independence represents the peak of neglect towards the Dalit community. Many such instances highlight the dismissive attitude of past governments towards Babasaheb.
Panch Teerth — From Reverence to Devotion
Under PM Modi’s leadership, the Centre has brought Dr. Ambedkar’s ideas to the forefront of policymaking. It has developed five key places associated with his life as ‘Panch Teerth’ — Mhow (birthplace), Nagpur (Diksha Bhoomi), Mumbai (Rajgruha), Delhi (Mahaparinirvan Sthal), and London (residence during education). The initiative is not just about building memorials but about connecting younger generation with his ideology.
Restoration of Justice, Honour
In 1990, the BJP-supported government posthumously awarded Dr. Ambedkar the Bharat Ratna, restoring his rightful honor. The BJP has given notable representation to Dalit leaders in high offices. The election of Shri Ram Nath Kovind and later Smt. Droupadi Murmu to the post of President marks a historic milestone for the nation.
Schemes Changing the Landscape
Today, the Dalit community is not merely a beneficiary but an empowered partner in nation-building. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the government has worked to bring Dalits into the mainstream of self-reliance through initiatives in education, health, basic facilities, employment, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment.
Education the Foundation of Equal Opportunity
The post-matric scholarship scheme for SC students has been revamped with an allocation of ` 59,000 crore, benefiting over 4 crore students in five years. Programs like National Fellowship, Top Class Scholarship, and an increase in foreign scholarships from 60 to 100 have opened new avenues for higher education. A provision of `19,995 crore for free coaching and ` 249 crore for hostel construction has been made.
Support in Health and Dignity
The Ayushman Bharat scheme has provided health security to approx 36 crore beneficiaries, including a significant number from Dalit and marginalized communities. Over 10 crore free gas connections have been distributed under the Ujjwala scheme, and more than 12 crore toilets have been built under the Swachh Bharat Mission—ensuring dignity for Dalit, deprived, and tribal families.
Housing the
Foundation of
Dignified Living
Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural), nearly 3 crore pucca houses have been provided, and over 58 lakh houses have been built under the urban scheme. These houses ensure basic amenities like electricity, water, toilets, and cooking gas.
Employment,
Entrepreneurship, and Self-Reliance
Over 40% of employment under MGNREGA has been provided to SC and ST communities. Schemes like Stand-Up India, Mudra Yojana, VCF-SC, ASIIM, and PM-SURAJ Portal have provided loans, technical training, and startup support to thousands of SCSTOBC entrepreneurs.
Empowerment of Women —the SHG and Lakhpati Didi
Under the Deen Dayal Antyodaya National Rural Livelihood Mission, over 10 crore women have been connected to Self-Help Groups (SHGs), the majority of whom are from SC and ST communities. Through the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative launched by Prime Minister Modi, the target is to empower 3 crore women, and over 1 crore women are already on the path to becoming ‘Lakhpati’ (earning `1 lakh or more annually).
This has had a direct impact on the socio-economic empowerment of Dalit and rural women.
Inclusion with Dignity
At the core of all these schemes lies Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of equality. The government’s policies prove that social justice is no longer just an ideal—it’s a reality of governance and implementation. Initiatives like the Ambedkar International Centre, Panch Teerth development, and integration of his thoughts in curricula demonstrate that the government is not just honoring the past but shaping the future.
Toward Social Harmony
Prime Minister Modi’s mantra—“Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, aur Sabka Prayas”—sends a powerful message toward social harmony. According to him, Dr. Ambedkar was not just a leader of Dalits but the rebuilder of India. This vision transcends politics and symbolizes the reinstatement of social justice.
Dr. Ambedkar’s birth anniversary is not just a day of reverence but an opportunity for introspection—a day to resolve that we shall build an India where no community, caste, or group is left behind.
The author is Union Minister of State for Rural Development, Government of India
