Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao praised the state for its efforts in implementing various schemes for the development of tribal communities. In celebration of ‘World Adivasi Day,’ the CM extended his greetings and expressed the government’s commitment to the welfare of tribals who depend on forests for their livelihoods.
Over the past nine years, the government has successfully implemented welfare schemes that have positively impacted the lives of tribals. These schemes have fulfilled the aspirations of the renowned tribal warrior Kumaram Bheem, who fought for the rights of water, forest, and land. Through initiatives like Mission Bhagiratha, the government has provided potable drinking water to Gond habitations in remote forest areas and tribal Tandas. Irrigation facilities and free electricity for agricultural needs in tribal habitations have also been provided through projects like Kaleshwaram and Mission Kakatiya.
Telangana takes pride in protecting its forests and has become a leading example for other states in reviving dwindling forest cover. The government has also distributed Podu land pattas to tribals, ensuring their rights to their lands. With over 4 lakh acres of Podu lands distributed to 1.50 lakh tribals, Telangana stands as the third largest state in the country in terms of land distribution.
In addition to land rights, the government has supported tribal farmers through initiatives like Rythu Bandhu and Rythu Bima schemes. The upgrade of 2,471 tribal habitations to Gram Panchayats has encouraged tribal participation in the democratic political process, allowing them to elect themselves as Sarpanches and fulfill their aspirations.
Telangana has set an example for the rest of the country by implementing 10% reservation for tribals in education and job sectors, ensuring proportional representation and opportunities for their community.
