Government Strengthens Welfare and Economic Empowerment of De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities through SEED Scheme
Issued by Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
Read or download the official PDF of this gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment on 17th August 2026. Classified under Press Release.
Executive Summary & Key Takeaways
Executive Summary The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment is implementing the Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNTs (SEED) to provide socio-economic support to De-notified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic (DNT/NT/SNT) communities. Managed by the Development and Welfare Board (DWBDNC), the scheme focuses on education, healthcare, livelihoods, and housing. The initiative follows the recommendations of a 2017 National Commission report and the subsequent establishment of the DWBDNC in February 2019.
Key Points / Main Content
Institutional Framework
- National Commission: Constituted in January 2015, the commission submitted a comprehensive report in December 2017 regarding DNT/NT/SNT tribes.
- Establishment of DWBDNC: The Development and Welfare Board for De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities was formed in February 2019 to execute welfare measures.
The SEED Scheme Components
- Educational Empowerment: Provides high-quality coaching to DNT candidates to assist them in preparing for competitive examinations.
- Health Insurance: Offers insurance support to community members to facilitate access to essential healthcare services and improve well-being.
- Livelihood Initiatives: Supports community-level programs to enhance economic opportunities and facilitate self-sufficiency.
- Housing Support: Grants financial assistance for the construction of houses to improve the living conditions of eligible community members.
Program Objectives
- Socio-Economic Needs: Addresses critical gaps in essential services for nomadic and semi-nomadic populations.
- Inclusion: Aims to create an inclusive society by facilitating access to institutional support and empowerment opportunities.
Impact Analysis
De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic (DNT/NT/SNT) Communities Impact Eligible members gain access to structured support in education, health, and housing, which facilitates better living conditions and economic empowerment. Action Required Interested and eligible community members should engage with the DWBDNC to access coaching, insurance, and financial assistance for housing and livelihoods.
Development and Welfare Board (DWBDNC) Impact The board is empowered as the primary institutional framework responsible for implementing the SEED scheme and addressing the recommendations of the National Commission. Action Required The board must continue the implementation of the four SEED components and facilitate the distribution of welfare benefits to the target communities.