Govt committed to prioritising inclusive dev of tribals: Rana

Srinagar, July 17: Minister for Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana on Thursday said that the government is committed to prioritising inclusive development, education, healthcare and livelihood opportunities to uplift tribal communities.Javed Rana was speaking during a meeting convened to discuss collaborative initiative of Forest and Tribal Affairs Departments to promote eco-friendly tourism in Jammu & Kashmir, focusing on skill development training for tribal youth. According to a statement issued here, the initiative aims to empower tribal youth by equipping them with the necessary skills to work as eco-tourism and trekking guides, generating income and opening up new career paths.The initiative has multiple benefits, including enhancing the employability of tribal youth, creating sustainable livelihood opportunities, promoting cultural heritage and fostering inclusive growth and social justice. To achieve these objectives, the initiative will be driven by capacity building programs, research initiatives and inter-departmental coordination between the Forest, Tribal Affairs and other concerned departments.The Minister directed the Forest Department to identify trekking routes and impart training to tribal youth selected by the Tribal Affairs Department. This collaborative effort aims to promote eco-tourism through skilling of tribal youth. The Minister said that the government, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is committed to prioritizing inclusive development, education, healthcare and livelihood opportunities to uplift tribal communities.By promoting sustainable development, cultural preservation and social justice, this initiative aims to create a brighter future for Jammu and Kashmir’s tribal communities. The meeting was attended by key officials, including the Secretary, Tribal Affairs, PCCF, Director Tribal Affairs, J&K, and MD J&KFDC, underscoring the Government’s commitment to collaborative efforts in promoting tribal welfare and eco-friendly tourism.