Srinagar, Oct 23: Minister for Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana on Wednesday held an introductory meeting of the Tribal Affairs Department. He had an overall review of the achievements of the department towards the upliftment of the tribal population in J&K.
The meeting besides Secretary, Tribal Affairs was attended by the Secretary, Tribal Affairs Department, Director, Tribal Affairs, Secretary, G&B Board and other concerned officers of the Department.
Javed Rana, who is also Minister for Forest, Ecology & Environment and Jal Shakti Departments, impressed upon the department to make advance budget preparations and project formulations so that the releases are made on time for efficient utilisation during the financial year. He impressed upon the officers to make concerted efforts for swift implementation of the tribal projects and schemes to benefit the people at the lower strata of society.
The minister sensitised the officers to draft projects that are beneficial to the community at large. He stressed the need for formulation of more schemes related to Agriculture, Horticulture, Dairy and Sheep development sectors which could widen the sphere of employment generation for tribal youth. He favoured developing tourism in tribal areas by giving a push to homestays and raising allied infrastructure there.
Rana also took note of the progress made in the establishment of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS). He called for keeping a portion of funds and schemes being implemented under UT or District Capex for the welfare of this population as per their proportion.
The minister preferred making provisions for creating housing colonies and flats for the tribal families. He also directed the department to make coordinated efforts for the celebration of ‘Janjatiya Garv Diwas’ in the coming week.
Secretary, Tribal Affairs Department, Prasanna Ramaswamy G highlighted the need for human resources for the smooth running of tribal hostels and the offices at the district level.
