Chief Minister Mohan Yadav stated that the appointment of Smt. Draupadi Murmu, a member of the tribal community, as the President of the country marks a historic achievement for the welfare of tribals. Significant decisions have also been made in Madhya Pradesh in this regard. This year, tribal folk artists were invited to participate in Lord Mahakaal's procesion. Union Tribal Minister Durgadas Uike personally attended the Pratham Puja in Ujjain, a role traditionally reserved for the Chief Minister or other distinguished individuals.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that public representatives, citizens, and tribal students will be encouraged for education and extended the benfits of Teerth Darshan Yojana. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav was addressing the tribal students' promotion and felicitation ceremony organized at Khalwa in Khandwa district today. He also made many important announcements in the interest of the tribal category.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav announced that under the Akanksha Yojana, free coaching facilities are being provided to Scheduled Caste and Tribe students in the state for national-level entrance exams such as JEE, NEET, AIIMS, and CLAT. The scheme is being launched in the Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, and Ujjain divisions, allowing students to access free coaching in five major cities: Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, Jabalpur, and Gwalior. Additionally, Rs 2 lakh is being symbolically provided to five students under the scholarship scheme for studying abroad.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that similar programs will be organized in every tribal-dominated district, providing opportunities to showcase local talent. While children from affluent families often study abroad, now, even members of underprivileged tribal families are getting the chance to pursue education overseas. The joy and pride seen in the eyes of the parents of these children today is truly remarkable and heartwarming.
Chief Minister Yadav emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is elevating the nation's stature, with progress being made in every sector. The state government is committed to advancing alongside the underprivileged tribal communities, ensuring their children have opportunities to succeed. He highlighted the immense potential of India's youth, viewing the country's large population not as a challenge, but as a strength. Financial barriers will not stand in the way of education for children from poor and tribal families. They can pursue their studies without worry, as the government will cover the costs. Dr. Yadav encouraged everyone to aim high, whether it's becoming doctors, engineers, or scientists, and assured that the government will support those who wish to study abroad by covering their expenses.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav lit the lamp and inaugurated the felicitation ceremony. Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durgadas Uike and State Tribal Affairs Minister Dr. Kunwar Vijay Shah were present. Free bus facility was also started for the girls of Harsud and Khalwa area of Khandwa district to travel to Government College Harsud.
Apart from this, out of 70 students selected in the scholarship scheme of the Tribal Affairs Department for the academic session of 2024-25, 5 students were honored on a public platform. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav awarded a scholarship of about Rs 35 lakh, including university fees and other expenses, to the talented tribal student Asharam Palvi for studying in London.