608 villages in Nagaland to be covered under new central scheme for tribals

October 16, 2024 5 Views No Comment

Union Minister Jual Oram holds state-level meeting on tribal schemes in Dimapur

DIMAPUR, OCTOBER 16 (MExN): Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Jual Oram on Tuesday said 74 blocks and 608 villages in Nagaland will be covered under a newly launched scheme by the Centre for tribals.

Introducing the recently launched Dharti Abba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, which was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 2, 2024, Oram said this scheme is anticipated to cover 549 districts and 2,911 blocks across 30 states and Union territories with a total outlay of Rs 79,156 crore.

In Nagaland, the initiative will encompass all 16 districts, 74 blocks, and 608 villages, ensuring comprehensive support for tribal communities, a DIPR report stated.

The Union Minster stated this during the state-level review meeting held at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Dimapur on October 15 to assess the implementation of government-aided schemes for tribal development.

The meeting was attended by district heads, department officials, and key legislators from Nagaland, including Moatoshi Longkumer, Advisor for Labour & Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Excise, and H. Tovihoto Ayemi, Advisor for Tribal Affairs and Election, a DIPR report stated.

During his address, Oram highlighted several existing tribal development schemes and programs, emphasizing that his visit aimed to evaluate their progress and ensure proper implementation. He reiterated the central government’s commitment to addressing the grievances of the people and working towards a ‘Vikasit Bharat’ (Developed India), with particular focus on the North East region. Oram underscored the importance of the government’s flagship Aspirational Districts Programme in enhancing development in underdeveloped areas.

Oram explained that his visit aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s directive for ministers to personally engage with various regions of the country, particularly the North East, to connect with the people and address their concerns directly. He urged local officials to ensure effective implementation of all government schemes to reach the intended beneficiaries.

Advisor Moatoshi Longkumer expressed gratitude for the Union Minister’s visit, describing it as a privilege for the people of Nagaland. He raised concerns regarding the state’s road infrastructure, seeking Oram’s assistance in addressing this issue. H. Tovihoto Ayemi echoed these sentiments, thanking Oram for his support of tribal communities.

During the meeting, Oram also virtually inaugurated the new council hall at Lake View Colony, Dimapur. The session was chaired by Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, and included participation from various department heads and officials. The event concluded with a press conference where the Union Minister, along with officials from Tribal Affairs, Nagaland, led by Director Sino Phom and Joint Secretary Hito Sema, interacted with the media.