Bridging the gap: Shandil pushes for inclusive welfare schemes

Health and Family Welfare Minister Dhani Ram Shandil today emphasised the need for deeper community engagement to ensure that the benefits of government welfare schemes reach minority communities effectively.

Presiding over the 53rd meeting of the Himachal Pradesh Minorities Finance and Development Commission (HPMFDC), Shandil reviewed ongoing initiatives and schemes implemented for the welfare of minorities across the state.

The minister noted that the awareness camps organised by the commission had received a good response from minority communities, helping to inform and educate them about various schemes. He reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and empowerment of all sections of society, particularly minorities, through focused and result-oriented efforts.

Shandil highlighted that the HPMFDC provides term loans up to Rs 30 lakh for tourism and agriculture-related activities, traditional or artisan work, technical or small businesses, as well as the transport and service sectors. “Activities supported include opening, expanding, or strengthening general stores, restaurants, cloth shops, dairy units, medical and computer shops, tent houses, barber shops, tube wells, beekeeping and taxi services,” he said.

Additionally, the corporation offers education loans up to Rs 20 lakh, along with loans for self-help groups and for purchasing machinery and equipment. He urged minority associations to actively participate in spreading awareness to bridge the information gap and improve the reach and implementation of welfare schemes.

In 2024–25, the corporation distributed Rs 8.71 crore to 150 beneficiaries, while the Himachal Pradesh Divyang Finance and Development Corporation (HPDFDC) disbursed Rs 4.37 crore to 65 Divyangjans. As of March 31, 2025, the HPMFDC has disbursed loans worth Rs 106.56 crore to 3,635 beneficiaries, while the HPDFDC has disbursed Rs 64.05 crore to 1,962 beneficiaries.

The highest number of HPMFDC beneficiaries were from Sirmaur (1,590), followed by Shimla, Solan, Chamba, Bilaspur, and other districts. The Board also approved the revenue budget for 2025–26 and appointed internal and statutory auditors and directors to ensure transparency and accountability.