New Delhi, May 19, 2026: The National Commission for Minorities (NCM), Government of India, today organized the Conference of State Minorities Commissions at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, New Delhi. The conference brought together representatives of State Minorities Commissions, senior officials from State Governments and Union Territories, policymakers and eminent representatives from minority communities to deliberate upon issues concerning minority welfare, institutional strengthening and inclusive development.
The conference served as an important platform for dialogue, coordination and exchange of ideas aimed at strengthening mechanisms for protection of minority rights and improving the delivery of welfare measures for minority communities across the country.
The conference was graced by Shri Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of Minority Affairs, and Shri George Kurian, Minister of State for Minority Affairs. Distinguished dignitaries present on the occasion included Shri Berjis Desai, Member, NCM; Ms. S. Munawari Begum, Member, NCM; Smt. Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary, NCM; Shri Danish Azad Ansari, Minister of State, Government of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Mohammad Zama Khan, Minister of Minority Welfare, Government of Bihar and Dr Atya Nand, Joint Secretary, NCM.
Speaking at the event, Shri Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of Minority Affairs said, “The contribution of all minority communities to India’s growth and development is immense. The Parsi community has made extraordinary contributions to industry and the economy, Christians have played a significant role in education and healthcare, while Muslims, Buddhists, Jains and other minority communities have enriched India’s cultural, intellectual and social fabric in countless ways.”
He further added, “India continues to remain one of the safest and most inclusive homes for minorities. When we look at neighboring countries in the Indian subcontinent, we often see minority communities facing existential challenges and seeking refuge in India. From Afghanistan to Sri Lanka, minorities from across the region have looked towards India as a place of shelter, security and dignity.”
