Statement by India on Item 2: Minority Representation in Education” during the 17th Session of the UN Forum on Minority Issues (28-29 Nov 2024, Geneva) on Thursday, 28 November 2024 by Mr. Mohammed Hussain K.S., Counsellor & Legal Adviser, Permanent Mission of India, Geneva
Madam Chair,
- As India is taking the floor for the first time, we take this opportunity to firstly congratulate you on your appointment as the Chairperson of this Forum. Our delegation assures you of our full support.
Madam Chair,
- India is steadfast in empowering linguistic and religious minority communities and in creating an enabling environment that strengthens the multi-racial, multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, multi-lingual, and multi-religious character of our nation. We strive to improve the socio-economic conditions of minorities through affirmative action and inclusive development, ensuring that every citizen has equal opportunities to actively participate in nation-building.
- The Constitution of India provides for certain rights that are specific to minorities and protect their identity. Linguistic minorities are protected under the Constitution with special provisions to promote the right to conserve “distinct language, script, or culture”. The Commissioner for Linguistic Minorities oversees these rights.
- India has a dedicated Ministry of Minority Affairs as well as a National Commission for Minorities, both of which work towards a more focused approach to addressing issues related to religious minority communities and safeguarding their interests.
Madam Chair,
- Regarding educational rights, the Constitution of India provides the right for all religious and linguistic minorities to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice, as well as freedom from discrimination in receiving aid from the State. The Constitution also prohibits the denial of admission to any citizen to any educational institution maintained or aided by the State on grounds of religion, race, caste, or language. To ensure implementation of these provisions, the National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions safeguards the educational rights of minorities.
- Further, the Government of India has launched several schemes to provide for and protect the educational rights of minorities. The education component of the PM VIKAS scheme focuses on providing educational bridge programs to school dropouts from minority communities, enabling them to pursue open schooling and receive certification through the National Institute of Open Schooling. This is aligned with other government initiatives, such as the Skill India Mission, to ensure the holistic development of minorities. In addition, various scholarship schemes are also available for students from minority communities, providing further support to ensure equitable access to education and opportunities for all.
Madam Chair,
- India is committed to ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their background, has access to education and opportunities for advancement, with the slogan of “no one is left behind.”
Thank you.
