National Commission for STs hails development of tribal areas
The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has commended Himachal Government’s endeavours regarding the development of tribal areas and the welfare of the people residing there.
The chairman and members of the commission, currently on a two-day visit to Shimla, held a review meeting with senior officials from various departments of the state government here on Wednesday to discuss the challenges faced by tribal areas and their solutions.
Presiding over the meeting, NCST Chairman Antar Singh Arya said despite difficult geographical conditions, Himachal Pradesh was performing well in the sphere of tribal development. He expressed satisfaction over the significant progress made in key sectors such as education, healthcare, road construction, electricity and drinking water supply in tribal areas.
After a detailed review of the work undertaken by various departments, he issued necessary directives aimed at providing even better facilities to the residents of tribal areas.
The chairperson directed the state government to expedite the resolution of cases under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) in tribal areas so that eligible individuals could promptly receive the benefits entitled to them under the Act.
He expressed happiness that, unlike the situation in many other states of the country, no cases of sickle cell anaemia were reported in the tribal areas of Himachal Pradesh.
Members of the commission Nirupam Chakma and Dr Asha Lakra also offered valuable suggestions and instructions.
Subsequently, the commission held meetings with representatives from tribal areas, forest conservation committees, forest rights beneficiaries and various social organisations. Detailed discussions were also held regarding issues concerning tribal communities and the effective implementation of the Forest Rights Act.
The meeting also featured comprehensive discussions on various matters related to the protection of tribal interests, their welfare and development.
During the event, representatives from the Hati community, Gujjars, Gaddis and people of Kinnaur and other tribal communities presented issues and suggestions concerning their respective regions to the commission. Arya assured them that necessary steps would be taken to address their issues.
