P.V.Anandpadmanabhan
Mumbai,
The government is making dedicated efforts to bring the tribal community into the mainstream. Various schemes are being implemented to achieve this goal. The government is committed to the overall development of tribal areas, ensuring balanced growth through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds, stated Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
CM Fadnavis was speaking at a conference organized at Sahyadri Guest House by the Tribal Development Department in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
He emphasized the need for rapid improvements in education and healthcare services for the tribal population. “CSR funds should not be concentrated only in metropolitan areas but should be utilized for balanced development. Special focus should be given to education and healthcare,” he said.
Highlighting the rich history and cultural heritage of the tribal community, the Chief Minister noted that despite having their own legal systems and values, they fell behind over time. The central and state governments have launched several schemes to integrate them into the mainstream, aiming to bring new hope into their lives. He also mentioned that the government is running various schemes to provide nutritional support to pregnant women and children.
Maharashtra has approximately 9.5% of its total population belonging to the tribal community, which constitutes about 10% of India’s total tribal population. This makes Maharashtra a state with a significant tribal presence. CM Fadnavis stated that efforts are being made to provide high-quality education to tribal children and ensure that their natural talents receive appropriate recognition. To facilitate this, admissions are being given in reputed schools.
The Chief Minister appreciated the Tribal Development Department for organizing this conference to accelerate the development of Scheduled Tribes. He also welcomed and thanked all the representatives who participated in the event.
Tribal Development Minister Dr. Ashok Uikey stated that, for the first time, the department has initiated a program called “CSR for Change,” which promotes social responsibility partnerships for the upliftment of tribal communities. “Through this initiative, companies’ CSR contributions will strengthen our efforts in implementing welfare schemes for tribal people,” he added.
