SIO expresses grave concern over the recent budgetary allocations that starkly undermine the educational needs of minorities and the broader student community in India. The Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, a pivotal scheme for unifying SSA, RMSA, and teacher education since 2018, has seen its allocation drastically reduced from 1.46% of total expenditure (TE) in 2015-16 to a mere 0.78% for 2024–25. This substantial cutback comes at a time when educational schemes are already facing severe setbacks.

Despite a dip in the allocation of minority funds last year, the ministry of minorities spent only 48 percent of the allocated funds, highlighting inefficiencies and a lack of commitment. Additionally, the ministry’s budget for 2023–24 saw a 38 percent reduction compared to the previous year, severely impacting scholarship and skill development schemes.

The report by the Centre for Budget and Governance Accountability (CBGA) titled In Search of Inclusive Recovery pointed out the disproportionate representation of minorities, who make up 21 percent of the population according to the 2011 Census, in the allocation of funds. A meager 4 percent growth in the minority affairs budget was primarily due to a small increase in allocations for the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK).

Furthermore, the Central government’s promise to provide one crore scholarships to minorities under various schemes in 2019 remains unfulfilled, with only 58 lakh scholarships awarded, leaving 47 percent of eligible students deprived. The allocated amount for FY25 is Rs 9,091 crore less than the revised estimate for 2023–24, marking a 7.26 percent decline. While higher education received an increase of 7.68 percent, rising to Rs 47,619 crore, it is still lower than the revised estimate of Rs 57,244 crore for 2023–24. This decline does not align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 recommendation of allocating 6 percent of GDP to education. The University Grants Commission (UGC) also faced a budget cut, reducing its allocation to Rs 2,500 crore, which will adversely affect educational programs, scholarships, and initiatives.

The announcement of financial support for loans up to Rs 10 lakh for higher education and the provision of e-vouchers for 3 percent annual interest subvention are welcome steps. Concerns remain, however, about the support provided after internships and the overall insufficient allocations that fail to address the needs of minority, health and education.

SIO urges the government to reconsider these budget cuts and prioritize educational equity and inclusion, ensuring that all students, especially those from minority communities, have access to quality education and opportunities.