Jaipur, Apr 14 (PTI) Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje today said her government is committed to the welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and the reservations for Dalits will continue.

Raje made the remarks while addressing a gathering on Dalit icon B R Ambedkar's 127th birth anniversary here.

The chief minister said, "a few people are trying to create confusion on the reservation system. It has not been abolished and it will never happen."

“We will not let the reservation be abolished ever. The government is committed to secure the benefits of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes,” she said.

She said Dr Ambedkar dedicated his life for equal rights and eliminated discrimination and ill-practices prevailing in the society.

"We are working on the path shown by him and progressing by taking everyone along in the state. The state government has increased loan subsidy from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh for youths of the SC/ST community for setting-up industry. In manufacturing sector, the government now provides loan of Rs 25 lakh instead of Rs 10 lakh, she said.

The chief minister said if any industry employs over 15 per cent bonafide SC/ST residents of the state, a maximum of Rs 85,000 annually per individual will be given as an employment subsidy. 

Raje also announced equal application fees for all category candidates having Rs 2.50 lakh annual family income applying for government jobs.

Rajasthan Governor Kalyan Singh, who was also present here, said the country cannot progress without honouring women.

"There is a need to create an environment to honour women. We should make efforts to take everyone along with the feeling of equality, freedom and brotherhood, he said.

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