Expressing concern over the tardy development process in tribal dominated areas in the State, Governor SC Jamir on Thursday laid emphasis on preparation of a 30-year-long term plan of action in consultation with tribal people for rapid development.
The Governor was speaking at a State-level Adivasi meet on Adivasi policy organised jointly by Odisha Development Action Forum (ODAF) and Odisha Adivasi Adhikar Abhijan (OAAA) here.
Stating that despite funding of crores of rupees for the development of tribal people and areas, the welfare plans are not being executed at ground level properly, Dr Jamir maintained that the faults are neither with policies nor in funding and instead lies with those entrusted in the work of implementation.
“Because, those posted in the tribal areas always consider it punishment posting. Their hearts are elsewhere while physically they are there. Hence, a compassionless approach has either delayed the process or stagnate it. So, this compassionless approach has to be replaced with a complete different approach along with a 30-year long term plan of action,” said the Governor.
Among others, Padmashree Tulasi Munda, ODAF Vice Chairman Aditya Patnaik, ODAF Executive Secretary William Starley, Prem Patra Jani of OAAA and Hemalata Huntal also spoke. The Governor also released a booklet on the occasion.