Raja Syed Rather
The Government of India has provided financial assistance for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes (STs) in Jammu and Kashmir through various schemes over the last four years, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs informed the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.
Responding to a question raised by MP Mian Altaf Ahmad, Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, Durgadas Uikey stated that fund release details are available online at the STC-MIS portal. However, he did not specify the total amount allocated.
According to the J&K administration, the funds have been directed towards key tribal welfare initiatives, including: Special Central Assistance (SCA) to Tribal Sub-Plan (TSS) / Pradhan Mantri Aadi Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAAGY): Distributed based on district-wise proposals, approved by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA). Tribal Research Institutes (TRI) Support: Funds were allocated for MoTA-approved research and documentation activities. Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs): The funds supported the construction, upgradation, and operational expenses of schools catering to tribal students. Scholarships for ST Students: Disbursed through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) to provide financial assistance to eligible tribal students.
The tribal population in J&K, particularly Gujjars, Bakarwals, and Gaddies, rely on these funds for education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
