The Government has envisioned a programme for empowerment and livelihood improvement of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PTGs) in Odisha under the banner of OPElIP (Odia PTG Empowerment and livelihood Improvement Programme), which is to be monitored by the ST and SC Development Department.
At a high-level meeting held here, Chief Secretary JK Mohapatra advised to focus on connectivity, safe drinking water, health and sanitation in inaccessible areas.
The programme aims at providing support to the PTGs for ensuring sustained benefits to them. Considering the successful performance of OTElP and its impact in bringing about significant changes in the lives of tribals, IFAD (International Fund for Agricultural Development) has come forward to back it.
The IFAD team, led by AM Alam on its Inception Mission visited different micro projects like Juanga Development Agency, Hill Khadia and Mnakidia Development Agency, Paudi Bhuyan Development Agency, Kutia Kandha Development Agency, Sura Development Agency, lanjia Sura Development Agency along with other schemes meant for primitive tribes.
The team interacted with NGOs operating there, besides having discussions with OTElP officials, SCST Research Institute, NRlM Project Director and civil society organizations. The team spent almost 16 days in Odihsa to assess the situation.
Target has been set to start the programme in 17 micro project areas in 12 districts covering 13 PVTGs spread over 542 villages in 84 GPs. It has also been decided to make the programme out reach more inclusive by extending benefits to all PTG and non-PTG households living in adjoining villages. The methodology adopted and proved by the OTElP will be followed in this programme.
It has been targeted to mobilise and strengthen 2,500 SHGs, 542 village development committees and 40,000 households. The emphasis will be laid on increasing food security of households and enhancing their market access and reducing indebtedness.
As per the preliminary estimate, about Rs 6,100 million will be invested in the programme, of which 50 percent will be supported by IFAD. The CS assured the team that the Government will make arrangements for the balance 50 percent and will provide all necessary assistance for its implementation. They have been asked to expedite the process and execute the project within six months.