DyCM Karjol promises SC/ST push in budget

Deputy Chief Minister Govind Karjol said on Friday special focus would be given to ensure the welfare of the SC, ST communities in the upcoming 2020-21 state budget.

Karjol, who is also in charge of Social Welfare and Public Works, held a marathon 4-hour-long meeting with various organisations representing the SC/ST communities.

The Social Welfare department will give prominence to education, self-employment and land ownership of the SC/STs, Karjol told reporters.

The members of the organisations had given a list of concerns that needed the attention of the government. The same will be discussed with the chief minister to take a decision on addressing their concerns, Karjol added. In December last, Karjol had observed that only 39% of the Rs 30,445 crore available under SCP-TSP were utilized. He had directed officials to ensure that effective utilization of these funds are done before the end of the financial year.