Jammu: The Gujjars of Jammu and Kashmir have urged the government to formulate a compact programme to eradicate poverty among nomadic tribes and sought inclusion of all the migratory people in ‘Below Poverty Line’ population .
A press release issued here by ‘Tribal Research and Cultural Foundation’ stated that the migratory tribes were facing tremendous problems and deserved special attention of state authorities.
The foundation had organized a programme which was presided over by reputed Tribal Scholar Dr. Javaid Rahi while a number of community members participated in the programme and highlighted the plight of the community.
The press release, while referring to Dr. Javaid Rahi’s presidential address, said that the Gujjars-Bakerwals being nomads were not properly aware of the schemes being launched by State and Centre governments for uplifting them socially, economically ,educationally and Culturally under Schedule Tribe category. “The Gujjars-Bakerwals were listed in constitution of India in 1991 and yet poverty is growing rapidly in nomadic tribes as they are relinquishing their nomadic life and opting for unskilled labours and poverty eradication programme are required for them immediately,” Rahi was quoted by the press release.
The speakers at the occasion highlighted that nomadic tribes mainly Gujjars- Bakerwal ,Gadii, Sippi and Changpa migrate annually along with their cattle to upper reached since centuries and are not available at one place like other communities to take ration and other benefits. Seeking an innovative scheme for nomads before implementing any act, the speakers asked the government to be aware of the hardships of these communities and do not let them outside of the fold of welfare schemes.
