Himachal's Strategic Push for Tribal Development at Advisory Council

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu led a vital Tribal Advisory Council meeting, focusing on tribal region progress. Key discussions centered on education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Notable investments for 2024-25 were announced to bolster tribal development, with plans for tourism and financial accessibility enhancements.

In a landmark movement for the advancement of Himachal Pradesh's tribal regions, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu chaired the 49th meeting of the Tribal Advisory Council, addressing critical developmental agendas.

Discussions during the council meeting spanned a variety of essential issues, such as educational facilities, healthcare improvements, and infrastructure developments across tribal areas. The Chief Minister highlighted a substantial budget provision of Rs 890.28 crore under the Tribal Sub Plan and Tribal Area Development Programme for 2024-25, with an additional Rs 1,145.46 crore earmarked for non-plan expenditures, demonstrating the state's commitment to tribal welfare.

Chief among the government's priorities were education, water supply, and health schemes, with significant allocations detailed, including Rs 117.43 crore for infrastructure, Rs 37.45 crore for educational services, Rs 52.75 crore for healthcare, and Rs 75.75 crore dedicated to drinking water projects. The meeting reaffirmed the state's dedication to promoting local tourism through initiatives such as the Buddhist Tourism Circuit and new heliports, anticipated to elevate employment within tribal communities.

A key focus was the progress in securing land rights (Nautod) for tribal residents, which is awaiting approval from the Governor. The Council also emphasized the need to expedite educational facilities like the Eklavya Model Residential School and Aadarsh Vidyyalya projects, aimed at enriching educational access locally.

Tribal Development Minister Jagat Singh Negi, who welcomed the Chief Minister, expressed satisfaction with the Congress government's accelerated development pace in tribal areas compared to the previous BJP administration. He noted notable progress in horticulture and agriculture. The meeting was attended by senior government officials, underscoring its significance in the strategic development of tribal regions.

(With inputs from agencies.)