Module 23: Welfare of Backward Classes, Extremely Backward Classes & Minorities

Backward & Extremely Backward Classes Welfare:

• The Department of Welfare of Backward and Extremely Backward Classes was constituted in 2007-08. 131 backward castes constitute nearly 60 percent of Bihar's population.
• Scholarships include Pre-Matric, Post-Matric, Mukhyamantri EBC Merit Scholarship, and BC Merit Scholarship.
• Hostel Construction: 100-seated Backward Class Welfare Hostels in all 38 districts, alongside Jannayak Karpoori Thakur Hostels for EBC students.

Minority Welfare:

• According to Census 2011, religious minorities comprise 17.3 percent of Bihar's population (Muslims = 16.9 percent, others = 0.4%).
• High concentration in Seemanchal: Kishanganj (68.0%), Katihar (44.5%), Araria (42.9%), and Purnea (38.5%). The Department of Minority Welfare was established in 1991.
• Mukhyamantri Alpsankhyak Vidyarthi Protsahan Yojana: Matriculation awards: Rs. 10,000 for 1st division and Rs. 8,000 for 2nd division; Intermediate (12th) awards: Rs. 15,000 for 1st division and Rs. 10,000 for 2nd division.
• Muslim Divorcee Women Assistance Programme: Rs. 10,000 grant provided for self-employment.
• Talim Markaz: Primary education centres for minority children aged 6–10 years under SSA.
• Mazharul Haque Arabi-Persian University (Patna): Designated as the nodal agency for imparting physical training to minority candidates appearing for Bihar Police Service Recruitment.