The World Day of Social Justice is observed on February 20 by the United Nations to promote efforts in addressing poverty, exclusion, and unemployment while fostering solidarity and equality of opportunity across societies. This year’s theme emphasises the role of governments and global institutions in tackling social injustice and promoting fairness.

India’s role in Social Justice initiatives

Aligned with the global mission of the World Day of Social Justice, India’s Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) has been working on bridging socio-economic disparities through legislative reforms, grassroots initiatives, and international collaborations. Over the years, India has strengthened its commitment to empowering marginalized communities and upholding justice for all citizens.

Since its inception in 2009, the World Day of Social Justice has served as a global reminder of the interconnection between social justice and peace. With rising economic inequalities and challenges in global security, the importance of social justice initiatives becomes ever more critical. This is further supported by the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) efforts, which promote social justice through their Declaration on Social Justice for a Fair Globalization.

Key Social Justice Programs in India

India’s journey toward achieving social justice is deeply rooted in its constitutional mandates, which lay a strong foundation for ensuring equality, dignity, and justice, particularly for disadvantaged communities. The MoSJE’s recent initiatives, such as PM-AJAY, NAMASTE, SMILE, PM-DAKSH Yojana, and the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, highlight India’s focus on creating opportunities for marginalized groups through education, skills development, and economic empowerment.

The MoSJE has also prioritized the empowerment of vulnerable groups, including Scheduled Castes (SCs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Transgender Persons, and individuals engaged in begging, through a series of social protection measures and welfare programs. Additionally, the government has expanded its budget allocation, reflecting its continued focus on fostering justice and inclusion.

Initiatives for the Marginalised

Through programs such as SRESHTA (Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas) and Purple Fests, the MoSJE has ensured that marginalized communities gain access to quality education and platforms for social inclusion. The NAMASTE scheme has also been crucial in providing sustainable livelihoods to sanitation workers, while SMILE continues to work towards rehabilitating transgender individuals and persons engaged in begging.

As the country observes the World Day of Social Justice, these efforts reaffirm India’s dedication to addressing socio-economic gaps and ensuring dignity, justice, and equal opportunity for all its citizens.