Why in news?
The Pradhan Mantri Samajik Utthan evam Rozgar Adharit Jankalyan (PM‑SURAJ) portal has recorded impressive results since its launch in March 2024. News reports from February 2026 highlight that over ₹1,389 crore in concessional loans have been disbursed to around 1.39 lakh beneficiaries from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes and other marginalised groups. The portal aims to streamline credit delivery and empower entrepreneurs.
Background
PM‑SURAJ was launched on 13 March 2024 by the Government of India to provide easy access to concessional credit for disadvantaged communities. The initiative is overseen by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and is implemented through three development corporations: the National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC), the National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC) and the National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation (NBCFDC). By integrating these schemes into a single digital platform, PM‑SURAJ seeks to reduce paperwork and ensure timely approval of loans.
Main features
- Unified portal: Applicants can apply for multiple credit schemes through one interface. State agencies and partner banks are linked to the platform, which expedites processing.
- Target beneficiaries: The programme focuses on Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Backward Classes, and De‑notified, Nomadic and Semi‑Nomadic Tribes. Entrepreneurs can access loans for business, education and self‑employment.
- Quick turnaround: Loans are generally approved and disbursed within two to four weeks, according to official reports. This speed reduces uncertainty for applicants and encourages uptake.
- Significant impact: In the 2024–25 fiscal year, PM‑SURAJ facilitated disbursement of over ₹1,389 crore to 1.39 lakh beneficiaries. These numbers reflect the portal’s success in reaching underserved groups.
Significance
- Financial inclusion: By simplifying access to credit, the portal empowers entrepreneurs from marginalised communities to start or expand businesses, thereby improving livelihoods.
- Social justice: PM‑SURAJ embodies the government’s commitment to prioritise the most vulnerable (“vanchiton ko variayata”) and reduce socio‑economic disparities.
- Transparent governance: Digital processing reduces corruption and ensures that funds reach the intended beneficiaries without delay.
Source: DevDiscourse
