Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Jual Oram held a state-level review meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Dimapur on October 15, 2024, to evaluate the implementation of government-aided schemes for tribal development. The meeting was attended by district heads, department officials, and key legislators from Nagaland, including Advisor for Labour & Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Excise, Moatoshi Longkumer and Advisor for Tribal Affairs and Election H. Tovihoto Ayemi.
During his address, Oram highlighted several existing tribal development schemes and programs, asserting that his visit was aimed at assessing their progress and ensuring proper implementation. He reiterated the central government’s commitment to listening to the grievances of the people and working towards a ‘Vikasit Bharat’ (Developed India), particularly with a focus on the Northeast region. Oram emphasized that the government’s flagship Aspirational Districts Programme plays a key role in boosting development in underdeveloped regions.
The union Minister also introduced the recently launched Dharti Abba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, which was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 2, 2024. The scheme is expected to benefit over 5 crores tribal people across India, focusing on addressing critical gaps in social infrastructure, healthcare, education, and livelihood. In Nagaland, the scheme will cover all 16 districts, 74 blocks, and 608 villages, ensuring comprehensive development support for tribal communities.
Oram explained that his visit was in line with Prime Minister, Modi’s directive for ministers to personally visit different regions of the country, particularly the Northeast, to engage with the people and address their concerns directly. He urged local officials to ensure that all government schemes are effectively implemented and reach the intended beneficiaries.
Moatoshi Longkumer expressed his gratitude for the Union Minister’s visit, calling it a privilege for the people of Nagaland. He also raised concerns about the state’s road infrastructure, requesting Oram’s assistance in addressing the issue. H. Tovihoto Ayemi echoed these sentiments, thanking Oram for his presence and support for the tribal communities.
During the meeting, Oram also virtually inaugurated the new Council hall at Lake View Colony, Dimapur.
The meeting was chaired by Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, and saw the participation of various department heads and officials. The event concluded with a press conference where the Union Minister along with officials from Tribal Affairs, Nagaland led by Director, Sino Phom and Joint Secretary, Hito Sema, and district heads had interaction with the media.
(I.Tiakumla Ao, IA Dimapur & Vihepu Sumi, IA, Nuiland)
