26.08.2024 : Meeting to discuss the Scheme of creation of Model Tribal Villages and Tribal University
Opening Remarks by Shri C P Radhakrishnan, Governor of Maharashtra at the Meeting to discuss the Scheme of creation of Model Tribal Villages and Tribal University held at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai| 26 August 2024
Dr Vijay Kumar Gavit, Hon’ble Minister of Tribal Development
Additional Chief Secretaries,
Principal Secretaries,
Secretaries,
Esteemed Officers,
representatives of NGOs,
I welcome you to Raj Bhavan. I have convened this meeting with a specific purpose and idea. An idea that holds the promise of transforming the lives of our tribal communities in Maharashtra.
In my capacity as the Guardian of the Scheduled Areas, I have always been committed to the welfare and empowerment of our tribal population. During my tenure in Maharashtra, I have set before me two pioneering initiatives that will set new benchmarks for tribal development, empower tribal youths while upholding the cultural heritage of our tribal communities.
1. The Model Tribal Villages in Maharashtra in all PESA Areas.
The first initiative is the creation of a Model Tribal Villages with support of good NGO’s and convergence of services and schemes of GOI and GOM. These villages will be more than just a settlement; they will serve as a beacon of integrated development and a model of excellence.
We aim to showcase how the convergence of various schemes from both the Government of India and the Government of Maharashtra can be implemented effectively to benefit our tribal and backward communities. These model villages will serve as a living example of how we can bring together resources and efforts to create a thriving, self-sustaining community.
My vision for these villages is comprehensive:
Infrastructure: We will ensure the development of robust infrastructure, including roads, sanitation facilities, and access to clean drinking water.
Healthcare: We will provide state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, including mobile clinics, to ensure that every individual has access to essential medical services. We will especially ensure that women are not anaemic and children are not malnourished.
Education: We will build and maintain schools with modern facilities to ensure that our children receive quality education.
Livelihood: We will implement programs that promote sustainable agricultural practices, vocational training, and entrepreneurship to enhance the economic well-being of the villagers through LIVELIHOOD MISSION of Maharashtra.
Cultural Preservation: Most importantly, we will ensure that these villages preserves and promotes the unique cultural practices of our tribal communities, fostering a deep sense of pride and identity.
2. The Tribal University from KG to PG at Nasik.
My second initiative is the establishment of a Tribal University in Nashik. It will be an institution dedicated to providing quality education and skills training from KG to PG level. I have learnt that such university is doing excellent work in Orissa.
This university will not only cater to the educational needs of tribal students but will also play a crucial role in their holistic development. The main issues in my mind are:
Accessibility: The university will reserve 80 percent of its seats for tribal students, ensuring that they have ample opportunities to pursue higher education and achieve their dreams.
Integration: The remaining 20 percent of seats will be open to non-tribal students, fostering a sense of unity and understanding between different communities.
Excellence: The university will adhere to the highest standards of excellence, governance, and academic rigor, with top-tier accreditation from NAAC to ensure quality education.
Call to Action
To realize these ambitious projects, I seek the wholehearted participation and support of all Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, and Secretaries of the concerned departments, NGO’s. Your expertise, dedication, and collaborative efforts will be crucial in bringing these initiatives to fruition.
I am confident that with your support, these initiatives will become a shining example of what we can achieve when we work together with determination and vision. I dream of inviting the Hon’ble Prime Minister to showcase the villages and the tribal university.
Dhanyawad !
Jai Hind ! Jai Maharashtra !!
