BARAMULLA: National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) member Dr Asha Lakra on Thursday interacted with Scheduled Tribe (ST) representatives in Baramulla to review issues concerning tribal welfare, constitutional safeguards and implementation of government schemes.
During the interaction at Dak Bungalow, representatives raised concerns regarding education, healthcare, employment, livelihood opportunities and basic infrastructure in tribal-populated areas.
They called for the inclusion of Gojri and Pahari languages in the education system to promote culturally responsive learning for tribal children. They also highlighted gaps in road connectivity, drinking water, electricity, sanitation and skill development.
A key demand was the effective implementation of the Forest Rights Act in Jammu and Kashmir, in line with its implementation in other parts of the country. The representatives also sought adequate staffing, resources and infrastructure for departments responsible for tribal welfare, along with improved access to scholarships, social security and other government schemes.
The representatives submitted a memorandum detailing their demands and concerns to Lakra, who assured them that the issues would be examined.
Later, Lakra chaired a meeting with district administration officials and representatives of concerned departments to review the implementation of constitutional safeguards, welfare measures and development programmes for Scheduled Tribes. A presentation outlined key initiatives, the status of welfare schemes and development interventions undertaken for tribal communities in the district.
Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Dr S.F. Hamid assured the commission member that the district administration would coordinate with concerned departments to address the issues raised and ensure timely implementation of welfare measures.
The meeting focused on identifying gaps in service delivery, strengthening interdepartmental coordination and ensuring that eligible beneficiaries receive the benefits of government schemes. Officers were directed to examine the grievances and take appropriate action for their timely redressal.
Senior Superintendent of Police Baramulla Gurinder Pal Singh, Additional Deputy Commissioner Sopore S.A. Raina and other district and sectoral officers attended the meeting.
