Oram exhorts tribals to maintain traditions while benefiting from government schemes

PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Haridwar

Union minister of Tribal Affairs Jual Oram stressed on the need for tribals to preserve their culture and traditions including the knowledge of medicinal herbs as in Ayurveda. He was speaking at the inaugural session of a two-day Chintan Shivir on the subject of ‘Viksit Janjati, Viksit Bharat- from Reflection to Roadmap for 2047 organised by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs at the University of Patanjali on Thursday.

Addressing the gathering of government officials and tribal representatives from across the nation, Oram said that tribals have a rich culture, traditions and lifestyle, adding that they should derive the benefit of various schemes run by the ministry. Pointing at the difference between skill and experience, the Union minister thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for laying stress on the importance of training, the Chintan Shivir being a part of the focus. Stating that it is good to learn Hindi and English, he emphasised that tribals should neither lose their native tongue nor their identity. Exhorting tribal participants at the Chintan Shivir to express their views and feedback freely, he assured them that there will not be any negative repercussions, while also emphasising that they should diligently attend all sessions of the event.

Union minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durgadas Uikey said that tribals have been mentioned in the Rig Veda and other ancient scriptures. Citing the example of Birsa Munda, he said that the tribals played a major role in the creation of Akhand Bharat.

Addressing the gathering, Swami Ramdev stressed on the need for society to become aware and make more effort towards an aim. He stressed upon the need for ensuring that tribal children focus single-mindedly on education till at least class XII while emphasising on the importance of effort with knowledge and strategy. Stating that the tribal children should not feel frustrated, he said that they come from a rich background, adding that the tribal community should align with positive modern aspects while retaining its roots. Stressing on the importance of self-effort, Ramdev pointed out that the Central Government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi had implemented various schemes for the welfare of the tribals and other sections of society. “The government initiated the Swachh Bharat mission but we still see people complaining about their surroundings not being clean. PM Modi cannot do your work for you,” he added.

University of Patanjali vice chancellor Acharya Balkrishna said that traditional medical practices like Ayurveda, which are also used by tribals, must be revived further. This will  ensure the physical, mental and social empowerment of tribals while also bringing about a balance and prosperity in their lives. Opining that some e-commerce platforms prioritise profits to the detriment of tribals, he suggested that the Ministry of Tribal Affairs could facilitate supply of products made by tribals through India Post which will benefit both the department and the tribals.