Bhubaneswar: Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Jual Oram, underscored the need for expanding pro-people programs across Odisha, emphasizing vocational courses and the preservation of tribal linguistic identities. The Minister’s directives came during a detailed review meeting with officials from the ST, SC Development Minorities and Backward Classes Welfare Department at the State Guest House.
According to an official press release, Minister Jual Oram called for a comprehensive mapping of schools across Odisha to address disparities in educational infrastructure availability. He stressed the conversion of senior secondary schools into degree colleges offering Plus Three courses, enabling tribal students to pursue higher education and compete effectively in career-oriented exams. The Minister also advocated for coaching facilities in these institutions to prepare students for various job opportunities.
Highlighting the importance of vocational courses, Minister Oram suggested their inclusion after Class X or Plus Two, enabling students to opt for professional careers independently. He proposed Odisha to pioneer skilling initiatives as a pilot project for nationwide implementation.
The meeting, chaired by Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the ST, SC Development Minorities and Backward Classes Welfare Department, Roopa Roshan Sahoo, saw the participation of senior officials who briefed the Minister on ongoing projects and programs.
Minister Oram also directed officials to monitor infrastructure development projects closely and expedite the mapping and gap identification for amenities in tribal and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) communities. He emphasized detailed operational analysis of the Tribal Development Coordinating Committee (TDCC) to enhance socio-economic empowerment among tribal communities.
Preservation of linguistic identities was another focal point of the Minister’s review. He highlighted the work of SCSTRTI and ATLC in documenting and publishing multilingual books, aimed at benefiting original tribal communities and broader language users alike.
The directives from Minister Jual Oram aim to bolster educational opportunities, vocational training, and cultural preservation efforts across tribal communities in Odisha, marking a significant step towards inclusive development and empowerment.