Tribals should be given equal opportunities, says George

Interactive camps and discussions should be held with various Indian tribal groups to understand their problems and solutions, said Home Minister K J George.

He was speaking at the valedictory function of the Sixth Tribal Youth Exchange Programme, organised by Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan, Karnataka Zone, and the Ministry of Home Affairs, here on Thursday.

George said such camps were helpful in chalking out educational policies and ensuring their proper implementation. They will also help bring tribals to the mainstream and give them a platform to develop their skills.

Sad state of affairs

M A Ganapathi, Joint Commissioner, Home Affairs, who was present on the occasion, said that in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Orissa, people found it difficult to lead a normal life because they were stuck between naxals and police.

Due to this, many NGOs and government organisations were reluctant to visit these areas for tribal welfare. “It is a very sad state of affair there,” he said.

Over 250 tribal men and women from Karnataka, Santhal, Munda, Gonda and Oraon participated in the event and exchanged their ideas, lifestyle and problems during the seven-day programme. They also visited various tourist destinations in the State.