Jaipur, March 16 Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma said on Monday that the contribution of the tribal community to the state's development has been invaluable, and the government is committed to promoting employment for tribal youth and supporting traditional handicrafts.
Addressing a public gathering on Tribal Pride Day at Beneshwar Dham in Dungarpur, Sharma said that the tribal community is known for its rich traditions, distinct culture, and close connection with nature, and has produced many heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country's freedom.
The chief minister said that the state government would undertake the overall development and beautification of Beneshwar Dham, a major center of faith for tribal communities, and a detailed project report was being prepared for this purpose, according to an official statement.
Referring to tribal heritage, Sharma said that handicrafts such as Pithora paintings, bamboo weaving, pottery, and wood carving represent the pride and cultural identity of the tribal community, and the government aims to ensure that artists receive proper recognition and value for their work.
He also highlighted various welfare measures for tribal communities, including increasing the monthly mess allowance in hostels from Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,250, and providing incentives for tribal students scoring above 80 per cent in classes 10 and 12, as well as those who clear CA and CS examinations.
The chief minister said that 244 new Maa-Baadi centers (community-run primary education centers in remote tribal areas of Rajasthan) have been established, and tribal farmers have been provided free hybrid maize seeds and minikits. He added that 530 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras have been set up in eight districts, benefiting over 1.5 lakh women.
Sharma said that the government would launch a special campaign to provide individual and community forest rights pattas to tribal residents living in forest areas and ensure their entry in revenue records to enable beneficiaries to access government schemes and bank loans.
He also announced that a tribal tourist circuit worth Rs 100 crore would be developed, linking major sites including Tripura Sundari Temple, Mangadh Dham, Beneshwar Dham, Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary, Rishabhdev Temple, Gautameshwar Temple, and Matrikundiya.
During the event, the chief minister also laid foundation stones for and inaugurated 326 development works worth Rs 1,902 crore in the tribal-dominated districts of Banswara, Dungarpur, Pratapgarh, Salumber, and Sirohi, the official statement said.