Dimapur: Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Jual Oram, introduced the newly launched Dharti Abba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan in Nagaland, marking a significant initiative aimed at holistic tribal development. This scheme, which is part of a nationwide program launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 2, will cover all 16 districts, 74 blocks, and 608 villages across the state.
With a national budget of over ₹79,000 crore, the initiative will span 549 districts and 2,911 blocks across 30 states and union territories, bringing essential infrastructure and services to tribal regions. Oram stated, “There will be 25 interventions, including roads, water supply, electrification, medical facilities, and Anganwadi centres, to uplift tribal communities.”
Addressing the press at the Dimapur Deputy Commissioner’s office on Tuesday following a state-level review meeting, Oram stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in implementing the schemes. “There will be satellite monitoring to ensure no manipulation of funds. Every month, the progress of roads and other infrastructure will be tracked to confirm they are visible on satellite images,” he explained.
The high-level state review meeting was attended by high-ranking officials from the state, district heads, officials from various departments, and legislators Moatoshi Longkumer, Advisor for Labour & Employment, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and H. Tovihoto Ayemi, Advisor for Tribal Affairs and Election.
The Dharti Abba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan aims to address critical infrastructure gaps and enhance the quality of life for tribal populations in Nagaland and across the country.
Jual Oram, the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, also concluded his three-day visit to Nagaland, where he reviewed tribal development projects and held discussions with key stakeholders. His visit focused on the progress and implementation of initiatives under the Tribal Affairs Ministry in the state.
During his stay, Oram met with Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to discuss matters related to tribal welfare. He emphasized the ministry’s commitment to “Vikasit Bharat,” aligning with the national agenda of inclusive development.
Highlighting the ministry’s efforts in education, Oram also informed that 22 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) have been sanctioned in Nagaland. “Three of these schools are operational, and 19 are currently under construction,” the minister stated. The EMRS initiative aims to provide quality education to tribal students across the country.
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