PM Modi Slams Previous Governments For Neglecting Tribal Communities

The event marked the 151st birth anniversary of tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda. During the interaction, beneficiaries shared their experiences and explained how central government schemes had improved their lives.

Speaking to Vajir from Hathakundi village in Gujarat’s Bharuch district, PM Modi discussed the New Gujarat Pattern Yojana and its impact on tribal communities. Vajir said he received bamboo craft training under the scheme in 2004 and had also benefited from PM-JANMAN initiatives.

Responding to him, PM Modi recalled the British-era law that classified bamboo as a tree and restricted its use. He said the law should have been abolished after Independence, but previous governments failed to address the issue.

The Prime Minister said his government had removed the restriction and ensured that tribal communities received full rights over bamboo.

PM Modi also interacted with Krishna Nagorao Teka, a PM-JANMAN beneficiary from Yavatmal, Maharashtra. Teka said his family had received a permanent house, toilet and other facilities under the scheme. These benefits had eased the difficulties they previously faced during the rainy season.

The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction over the improvements in their living conditions. He said the scheme had helped deliver essential facilities while allowing communities to remain connected to their cultural heritage.

Another beneficiary, Sabavat Anvesh from Hyderabad, thanked PM Modi for introducing PM SHRI Schools. He said the initiative was helping students pursue higher education.

During the programme, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of 246 development projects worth approximately Rs 3,000 crore. The initiatives focus on education, healthcare, livelihoods and community infrastructure.

The Prime Minister inaugurated 173 projects, including 38 Eklavya Model Residential Schools and 100 multi-purpose centres under PM-JANMAN. He also inaugurated projects under the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan.

Additionally, he laid foundation stones for 19 Eklavya schools, 12 Tribal Multi-purpose Marketing Centres and 42 other projects. The programme also marked the conclusion of Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada, observed nationwide from November 1 to 15.

Also Read: PM Modi Inaugurates Projects Worth Rs 3,000 Crore On Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas