Gujarat focusing on involving tribal community in the development process: CM
A six-member high-level delegation led by Dr Rameshwar Oran, Chairman of National Schedule Tribes Commission, today called on Chief Minister Narendra Modi and discussed the measures taken by Gujarat government for the welfare and protection of the tribal communities.The delegation visited various tribal districts of the state during past six days and had a meeting with the Chief Minister evening today.
During the meeting, the delegation also talked about Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojna(VKY) and the fruits being achieved through it. Dr Oran also praised the way the state government is executing VKY.
Chief Minister said that state government is focusing on the development of the eastern part of Gujarat that consists of 12 tribal districts from Ambaji to Vapi. Even though the original budget for VKY was of Rs.15,000-crore to be spent in five years the state has already spent about Rs.17,000-crore in first four years, which has bring about a qualitative change in the financial, educational and social aspects of the lives of tribal people, he said.
He said the state government has published a booklet containing information of about 700 tribal welfare schemes. He also urged the Commission to recommend this step to other states.
Chief Minister said that the efforts of tribal welfare is also getting boost from the project of Cowlagi committee which was formed for the all-round development of the undeveloped districts. Chief Minister also gave details of various programmes that the state government undertook for the welfare of tribal community especially the programmes for skill development among tribal youths.
Tribal Welfare Minister Mr Mangubhai Patel, Minister of State Mr Jaswantsinh Bhabhor, Parliamentary Secretary Mr Harsad Vasava, Additional Chief Secretary Mr R M Patel, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr G C Murmu and the members of the delegation were present on the occasion.