Top News

A Vision for Tribal Empowerment in Odisha

Baripada: On Wednesday, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized that the empowerment of tribals and Dalits is not merely a catchphrase but a crucial strategy for achieving a prosperous Odisha by the year 2035, as the state gears up to celebrate its centenary in 2036.

Speaking at the state-level 'Adivasi Shakti Samabesh' (tribal power gathering) in Mayurbhanj, the CM stated, "Our administration has devised a comprehensive strategy aimed at the holistic development of the state. Empowering tribal communities is not just about slogans or electoral tactics; it is a firm commitment of our government."

He pointed out that tribals and Dalits make up approximately 40% of Odisha's population, asserting that the state's advancement is contingent upon their upliftment.

Majhi described the Samabesh as a distinctive cultural gathering that promotes unity among diverse tribal groups, enabling the government to gain insights into their challenges in education, healthcare, and social security.

He mentioned that the state has established a clear objective for 2036, marking 100 years since Odisha's inception.

"To realize this vision over the next 11 years, we must extend support to the tribals and Scheduled Castes, who represent 40% of our populace," he added.

Highlighting significant initiatives, Majhi announced that the PM-Janman Yojana will benefit nearly 300,000 individuals, particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), across 1,679 villages in 14 districts.

Additionally, he unveiled plans for two major projects: the Tribal Culture and Heritage Bhavan, which will be constructed at a cost of ₹100 crore, and the Tribal Language Institute, with an investment of ₹50 crore.

The event was attended by Odisha's ST, SC, Minority and Backwards Class Minister Nityananda Gond, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik, Housing and Urban Development Minister Krishna Chandra Mohapatra, along with various tribal MPs, MLAs, and leaders.