The Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA), Government of India, in partnership with the Maharashtra State Minority Development Department, organised an extensive Advocacy and Outreach Workshop at the Convocation Hall of Mumbai University to raise awareness of the Jiyo Parsi Scheme. The flagship programme aims to support the Parsi community in increasing its population through assisted childbirth, counselling and family welfare support.
Senior officials, including Shri Alok Verma, DDG, and Shri Ranjeet Kumar, Senior Director (NIC), MoMA), interacted with beneficiaries, stakeholders and community representatives to review progress and strengthen delivery of the programme. The discussions centred on enhancing accessibility, efficiency and citizen-focused service.
In line with the government’s broader mission of minority welfare and economic upliftment, the National Minorities Development & Finance Corporation (NMDFC) took part in the session. NMDFC briefed Parsi community members about its affordable loan schemes designed to support entrepreneurship, start-up ventures and small businesses, encouraging individuals to access financial assistance for self-reliance and livelihood creation.
The International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), commissioned by MoMA to conduct a detailed study on the scheme, presented research-based insights covering demographic trends, programme performance and policy recommendations for the future.
A special interactive segment, led by Shri Harsh Ranjan, Senior Consultant – Media, Research & Outreach, MoMA, highlighted the ministry’s commitment to two-way communication. The session emphasised the importance of direct feedback from beneficiaries to refine implementation and improve on-ground outcomes.
One of the major highlights of the workshop was the emphasis on the digital transformation of the Jiyo Parsi Scheme. Beneficiaries can now complete essential formalities, including biometric verification, from home via a dedicated mobile app, enabling smoother access, improved transparency and faster service delivery. The development reflects the government’s push to integrate technology into public welfare programmes for efficient last-mile access.
The Ministry of Minority Affairs reiterated its commitment to the Parsi community, underscoring sustained support through strong schemes, evidence-based policymaking and continuous engagement. Programmes such as Jiyo Parsi remain central to safeguarding the cultural heritage of the Parsi community while promoting its long-term socio-economic progress.
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