Naveen Patnaik says BJD will continue efforts for ST status to 169 tribal communities

Bhubaneswar, Aug 9 (IANS) Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president and Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Odisha Assembly, Naveen Patnaik, on Sunday reiterated the party’s demand for the inclusion of 169 tribal communities in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) list, saying efforts will continue to secure their recognition and rights.

Speaking at an event organised to observe the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples at the BJD office here, Patnaik said the empowerment of tribal communities had always remained at the centre of various development and welfare initiatives implemented during the BJD government.

Patnaik said that several landmark programmes were launched during the BJD government for the development and empowerment of the tribal community. From higher education to livelihood and other areas, various measures had been taken to improve their lives and empower them.

Describing BJD as the “best friend” of the tribal brothers and sisters, the LoP said that during his government, several initiatives were taken for their welfare, including granting Panchayats the right to collect forest produce, setting up thousands of hostels, the Anwesha programme for higher education and ensuring forest land rights.

These initiatives, he said, helped connect the tribal community with the development process. Patnaik said that the BJD had always stood firmly with the tribal community for protecting their rights and culture.

Referring to the Special Development Councils (SDCs) launched during the BJD government, Patnaik said the initiative was unique in protecting tribal art and culture.

“Special Development Councils in 23 districts have made tribals equal partners in development. They became stewards in preserving their own sacred sites, arts, crafts, music and traditions while improving their livelihood,” he said.

He said the BJD government’s policy was to empower tribal communities and create opportunities for them to live with dignity in their own land.

Patnaik also referred to the proposal submitted to the Central Government during the BJD government for inclusion of 169 tribal communities in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) list.

The BJD chief reiterated the demand and announced that efforts would continue to achieve the inclusion of these communities in the ST list.

Patnaik said the empowerment of tribal brothers and sisters was not merely a promise, but the central focus of all tribal development programmes undertaken by the BJD government. He urged everyone to respect the knowledge of tribal communities and work sincerely towards protecting their culture.

–IANS

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