Government today expressed serious concern over atrocities against Scheduled Castes. Delivering his inaugural address at the conference of state ministers of Social Welfare and Justice, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh said it was imperative that the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 and the SC and ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 are implemented. Dr Singh stressed the need for implementing in letter and spirit existing laws for the protection of the scheduled caste people. The prime minister said,although successive governments have made progressive laws, which protect the basic rights and dignity of those who are disadvantaged in one way or the another, the real question is how to implement and enforce these laws effectively. Dr Singh said, he had written to Chief Ministers on this subject and hoped that the state welfare ministers would solemnly implement in letter and spirit the two Acts. The Prime Minister also said the government was considering expanding its pilot scheme Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana for integrated development of villages which have a large Scheduled Caste presence. The Centre has launched the scheme on a pilot basis in five states of Assam, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu for integrated development of 1000 villages. Dr Singh said ensuring equitable development of all sections of society and especially the weaker sections is central to the government's agenda of inclusive growth. On disability, Dr Singh said that the government proposes to bring a new law to replace the existing persons with Disability Act, 1955. He said, after consulting state governments and other stake holders, the government propose to introduce the bill in Parliament. Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Mukul Wasnik said offences of atrocities against persons belonging to Scheduled Castes continue to be a matter of serious concern. He said disability certificate is an essential document for persons with disabilities to avail benefits under various schemes and concessions from the government. The minister urged upon the states to simplify and decentralise the certification system.