Thiruvananthapuram
Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju stated that minorities in India are the "luckiest people" due to the special welfare initiatives available for them. Speaking at the regional review meeting on the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) in Thiruvananthapuram, he dismissed claims that minorities face discrimination.
"There are people who are creating some of the false narratives that minorities are not safe in India," he said. He emphasized that no other country offers separate schemes exclusively for minority communities.
Highlighting Kerala, where 44% of the population comprises Christians and Muslims, he noted that more schemes naturally reach the state. Rijiju assured that if Kerala’s government seeks additional support, the center will extend help.
He praised Kerala for its high loan disbursement and beneficiary numbers under PMJVK, calling it a success story. He also announced that the next Lok Samvardhan Parv, an event supporting artisans, will be held in Kerala in August, with full central government funding.