JAMMU: Minister for Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today met scores of delegations who raised various concerns and submitted representations for their redressal.
During the interactions, the Minister reiterated the Omar Abdullah Government’s commitment to ensure prompt resolution of public grievances, strengthen developmental and welfare initiatives across Jammu and Kashmir.
A delegation from the Gujjar & Bakerwal Post-Graduate Boys Hostel met the Minister and presented a detailed charter of demands focusing on skill development, exposure tours, and digital learning opportunities for students.
The delegation urged that an educational tour be organized at the earliest to broaden students’ exposure and enhance their learning experience.
They also requested the distribution of digital tablets to improve access to e-learning resources and align educational facilities with modern academic standards.
Rana assured the delegation that the government remains deeply committed to advancing the educational and infrastructural needs of students, particularly those belonging to tribal and marginalized sections.
He emphasized that every possible step will be taken to ensure better academic resources and facilities in hostels under the department’s purview.
Later, a delegation of Seasonal Educational Volunteers (SEVs) also called on the Minister and submitted a memorandum seeking an extension of their service period.
The SEVs underlined the crucial importance of continuity in educational services for migratory and nomadic communities spread across Jammu and Kashmir.
They informed the Minister that SEVs play an indispensable role in imparting education to migratory children enrolled in Seasonal Centers, ensuring that their studies are not disrupted during migration.
They further highlighted that through Baseline and End Line Surveys, a marked improvement in learning outcomes had been observed among over 4,300 migratory students benefitting from these educational interventions.
The Minister gave a patient hearing to the delegation and acknowledged the vital role SEVs play in bridging educational gaps and ensuring inclusive learning opportunities for children from migratory communities.
He reaffirmed Government’s commitment to supporting such initiatives that foster empowerment and upliftment across all sections of society.
Recognizing the importance of SEVs in sustaining the educational progress of nomadic populations, the Minister assured that their grievances would be examined on priority and merit basis.
He reiterated that the Government remains steadfast in its resolve to strengthen the educational ecosystem, empower tribal, migratory communities and promote equitable development throughout Jammu and Kashmir.
