SRINAGAR: Minister for Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana on Wednesday held an introductory meeting of Tribal Affairs Department.
The Minister had an overall review of achievements of the department towards upliftment of tribal population in J&K. The meeting besides Secretary, Tribal Affairs was attended by Secretary in 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 utilization 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.
Javed Rana emphasised 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 for developing tourism in tribal areas by giving push to Homestays and raising of allied infrastructure there.
The Minister also took note of the progress made in 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.
Besides, the Minister preferred making provisions for creating housing colonies and flats for the tribal families. He directed the Department to make coordinated efforts for celebration of ‘Janjatiya Garv Diwas’ in the coming week.