Minority Affairs Hosts ‘Chintan Shivir’ at Nalanda University to Shape Roadmap for Minority Welfare

In a major step towards strengthening inclusive governance and accelerating socio-economic progress of minority communities, the Ministry of Minority Affairs is organizing a landmark two-day 'Chintan Shivir' at the prestigious Nalanda University, Rajgir, Bihar, on 18–19 February 2026.

The high-level deliberative event will bring together Union Ministers, State Ministers, senior officials, and key stakeholders to chart an action-oriented roadmap for minority welfare aligned with India's national development priorities.

The event will be graced by Union Minister of Minority Affairs & Parliamentary Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju and Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs Shri George Kurian, along with representatives from multiple States and Union Territories.

National Platform for Action-Oriented Minority Development

The Chintan Shivir is envisioned as a strategic forum to deliberate on critical issues impacting minority communities and to strengthen implementation frameworks of flagship welfare programmes.

The gathering will focus on identifying:

• Implementation gaps in ongoing schemes

• Best practices across States and UTs

• Innovative solutions for emerging challenges

• Stronger inter-governmental coordination mechanisms

Wide Participation from States and Union Territories

The Shivir will witness participation from prominent State and UT Ministers, including:

• Shri Adv Kento Jini (Arunachal Pradesh)

• Shri Imkongmar (Advisor & MLA, Nagaland)

• Shri Samdup Lepcha (Minister, Social Welfare, Sikkim)

• Shri Sukla Charan Noatia (Minister, Minorities Welfare, Tripura)

• MD Zama Khan (Minister, Minorities Welfare, Bihar)

Senior officials from the Ministry and State governments will also actively contribute to the deliberations.

Five Key Themes at the Core of Discussions

The Chintan Shivir will feature focused group discussions around five thematic pillars that form the foundation of minority welfare policy:

1. Infrastructure Development

Through the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK)

2. Socio-Economic Empowerment

Via PMVIKAS and the National Minorities Development & Finance Corporation (NMDFC)

3. Waqf Management

Strengthening governance and transparency of Waqf institutions

4. Haj Management

Improving facilitation and services for pilgrims

5. Institutional and Programme Reforms

Enhancing delivery mechanisms through innovation and collaboration

These sessions will encourage peer learning and collaborative problem-solving, ensuring actionable recommendations emerge from stakeholder engagement.

Major Technology Initiatives to be Launched on February 19

A key highlight of the inaugural session on 19 February will be the launch of three cutting-edge digital initiatives aimed at improving transparency, citizen services, and beneficiary convenience:

• PMJVK Mobile Application – for enhanced monitoring and real-time transparency of projects

• Haj Suvidha Smart Wrist Band – to ensure safety, tracking, and convenience for Haj pilgrims

• AI-Powered Chatbot – integrated into the Ministry's portal for citizen query resolution and service delivery

These initiatives underscore the Ministry's commitment to leveraging technology for inclusive and efficient governance.

Event Structure Across Two Days

Day 1 – February 18, 2026

The first day will include:

• Briefing sessions on the Shivir methodology

• Thematic presentations by senior officials

• Special presentations by:

  • Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI)

  • FITT, IIT Delhi

  • Survey of India

• A cultural programme showcasing Bihar's rich heritage

Day 2 – February 19, 2026

The second day will begin with a yoga session, followed by the inaugural ceremony led by Ministers from the Centre and States.

The day will focus on:

• Group discussions on thematic priorities

• Consolidation of findings

• Formulation of concrete policy recommendations

• Programme refinement and future direction

Nalanda University: A Symbolic Venue of Knowledge and Inclusion

The selection of Nalanda University, Rajgir, holds deep symbolic significance. Nalanda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, represents India's ancient legacy of learning, inclusive dialogue, and intellectual exchange—values closely aligned with the objectives of the Chintan Shivir.

The historic setting provides an inspiring environment for shaping the future of minority welfare and inclusive national development.

Expected Outcomes: Concrete Action Points and Accelerated Progress

The Chintan Shivir is expected to deliver:

• A comprehensive roadmap for minority socio-economic development

• Innovative solutions for welfare challenges

• Improved programme implementation frameworks

• Strengthened Centre–State coordination

• Technology-driven citizen-centric governance reforms

This landmark initiative reflects the Government's continued commitment to empowering minority communities and ensuring their active participation in India's growth story.