Union Minister of Minority Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju, today welcomed beneficiaries from across the country who have come to participate in the 77th Republic Day celebrations. He described the occasion as special, noting that these beneficiaries are guests of the Prime Minister.
Shri Rijiju highlighted India's rich diversity and amalgamation of various cultures, which will be celebrated during the Republic Day Celebrations. He stated that the Ministry of Minority Affairs implements various schemes for six minority communities.
The Minister emphasized that the Ministry is helping numerous beneficiaries through initiatives like PMJVK, PMVIKAS, and other schemes.PMVIKAS focuses on skilling minority communities across India, while the recently launched Haj Suvidha App reflects the Ministry's modernization and digitization efforts.
He also commended the National Minorities Development and Finance Corporation (NMDFC) for its humongous efforts in financing beneficiaries through State Channelising Agencies nationwide. Shri Rijiju interacted personally with the beneficiaries from Ladakh, Ahmedabad, Tamil Nadu, and various other states.
They shared their experiences and expressed gratitude for the Ministry's efforts through schemes like NMDFC and PMVIKAS. Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs, Shri George Kurian, addressed the gathering, stating that people from across India are participating in the 77th Republic Day celebrations.
He emphasized that the Prime Minister's vision is being realized through the service of people nationwide via "Jan Bhagidari" (people's participation). Shri Kurian appreciated NMDFC's dedicated efforts under the Ministry of Minority Affairs. Secretary, MoMA, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, welcomed the pan-India guests, noting that the honourable Prime Minister has personally invited these special guests.
The Ministry arranged Republic Day celebrations and organized visits to important sites like the War Museum and PM Sangrahalaya. Dr. CS Kumar stressed the need to promote awareness of Ministry schemes and urged beneficiaries to contribute to realizing the Ministry's vision and goals.
Joint Secretary, MoMA, Shri Ram Singh, also welcomed the beneficiaries from all over India and appreciated NMDFC for the arrangements, including visits to Republic Day celebrations. He extended greetings to all dignitaries present and said that Ministry's commitment is to empower minority communities and fostering inclusive national pride.
On 26 January 2026, the beneficiaries will attend the Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path. Following the parade, they will visit the National War Memorial (Rashtriya Samar Smarak) at India Gate to pay homage to the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.
As part of the programme, the beneficiaries will also visit the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya at Teen Murti Marg, New Delhi, on 27 January 2026, where they will gain insights into the leadership and contributions of India’s Prime Ministers through immersive and interactive digital exhibits showcasing India’s journey since Independence.
The participation of NMDFC beneficiaries in the Republic Day Celebrations 2026 reflects the Ministry of Minority Affairs’ strong commitment to inclusive development, people-centric governance, and strengthening the engagement of minority communities in national-level events and celebrations.