Empowering De-Noted, Nomadic & Semi-Nomadic Communities: The Role of Development and Welfare Board for De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities (DWBDNC)
In the bustling city of Mumbai, on May 8, 2025, the Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar, visited Tisgaon Tanda village in Taluka Khultabad, District Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. This visit was a pivotal occasion for empowerment efforts targeting De-Noted (DNT), Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Communities. As the Development and Welfare Board for De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities (DWBDNC) of India, Dr. Kumar played a crucial role in reviewing the SEED (Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNTs) program and other state-led initiatives aimed at upliftment of these communities.
Introduction
The visit marked the beginning of efforts to address the significant socio-economic challenges faced by De-Noted, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Communities in Mumbai. These communities are often marginalized due to their unique social and economic structures, including a lack of formal education, limited access to infrastructure, and strained relationships with government officials. Dr. Kumar’s visit underscored his commitment to empowerment and inclusivity, aiming to ensure that these communities benefit from targeted support and initiatives.
DWBDNC: The Framework for Development
The DWBDNC, established by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE), was designed to provide tailored support for DNTs, Nomadic Groups, and Semi-Nomadic Communities. As the BWNC, this organization aimed to ensure that these communities receive better access to education, healthcare, and financial services.
The visit highlighted the importance of a structured approach in addressing the needs of these communities. Dr. Kumar interacted with stakeholders from various levels, including government officials, NGOs involved in SEED implementation, beneficiaries themselves, and local community leaders. These interactions provided valuable feedback on the effectiveness of existing programs and identified areas for improvement.
The SEED Scheme: A Target for upliftment
One of the key initiatives under the SEED scheme was its focus on DNTs, Nomadic Groups, and Semi-Nomadic Communities. The SEED scheme targets families with an annual income of ₹2.50 lakh or less who are not utilizing benefits from similar schemes in central or state governments. Key components included:
- Financial Support: Direct financial aid to individuals and families affected by the SEED initiative.
- Education and Skill Development: Workshops, courses, and resources to enhance skills such as language, computer literacy, and entrepreneurship.
- Healthcare Services: Access to affordable healthcare facilities, including mental health services and preventive medical care.
Dr. Kumar highlighted that these initiatives aim to build a strong foundation for sustainable development in these communities. By focusing on practical solutions and targeted support, the SEED scheme aims to empower DNTs to become self-reliant and part of society.
Community Engagement: Feedback from Stakeholders
During the visit, Dr. Kumar engaged directly with stakeholders across various levels of government and community groups. The conversation provided critical insights into the effectiveness of existing programs and highlighted areas for improvement. For instance, beneficiaries were informed about the benefits distributed to them, including financial aid, education resources, and healthcare services.
Local community leaders also shared their experiences and challenges, emphasizing the need for better communication strategies between government officials and community stakeholders. Dr. Kumar’s efforts reflect his commitment to ensuring that these communities have a voice in their empowerment journey.
Conclusion
The visit by Dr. Virendra Kumar underscored his dedication to upliftment and inclusivity. The introduction of DWBDNC and the SEED scheme represent significant strides toward addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by DNTs, Nomadic Groups, and Semi-Nomadic Communities in Mumbai. By focusing on practical solutions and targeted support, these initiatives aim to build a stronger foundation for sustainable development in these communities.
As the union minister of social justice and empowerment, Dr. Kumar’s work is pivotal in ensuring that all communities have a voice in their empowerment journey. His visit highlights his belief in the power of community engagement and action to uplift and transform socio-economic disparities.
Further Engagement
If you’re involved in supporting DNTs, Nomadic Groups, or Semi-Nomadic Communities, Dr. Kumar’s initiatives offer valuable resources for policymakers, NGOs, and community leaders. The DWBDNC framework provides a structured approach for delivering inclusive development efforts, ensuring that these communities benefit from better access to education, healthcare, and financial services. By continuing to prioritize such initiatives, we can work towards building a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.