Implementation of welfare schemes reviewed in Chamba

A review meeting on the implementation of welfare and development schemes for Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities was held on Monday at Chamba, under the chairmanship of Dr Asha Lakra, Member, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST).

During the meeting, Dr Lakra reviewed the progress of various departmental schemes and emphasized that all benefits must effectively reach the tribal population to safeguard their constitutional rights and welfare.

While assessing health services, she directed the Chief Medical Officer to organise health camps at the sub-divisional level and conduct screening for sickle cell anaemia among members of the Gujjar community.

Reviewing the implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), Dr Lakra instructed officials to furnish detailed reports on employment opportunities extended to pregnant women and differently-abled individuals.

She also sought a copy of the office note regarding the proposed National Highway project from Hatli-Sihunta-Chamba-Tissa-Pangi, aimed at improving connectivity for residents of the tribal subdivision Pangi.

The Public Works Department (PWD) was directed to prepare proposals for constructing biodigester toilets at major bus stops, while the Animal Husbandry Department was asked to focus on promoting local breeds among sheep and goat rearers belonging to tribal communities.

Dr Lakra further urged all departments to take concrete measures for water conservation and ensure the effective execution of welfare initiatives, including the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin), Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana, Swarna Jayanti Aashraya Yojana, as well as schemes related to education, electricity, drinking water, agriculture and horticulture. She also highlighted the importance of implementing the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, the Forest Rights Act and programmes promoting financial inclusion and skill development.

Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repswal welcomed Dr Lakra and assured that all decisions taken during the meeting would be implemented in letter and spirit.

Among those present were Superintendent of Police Abhishek Yadav, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Bharmour Kulbir Singh Rana, Assistant Commissioner Aparajita Chandel, Chief Medical Officer Dr Vipin Thakur, District Development Officer Tevendra Chanoria and other senior departmental officials.