Rupani says his govt committed to welfare of tribals

Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani today said his government is committed to safeguarding the rights of tribals envisaged in an Act.
He reiterated his government's resolve to implement the Panchayat (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA), which empowers gram panchayats in safeguarding and preserving the traditions, customs, cultural identity and community resources of tribals.
"The Act prescribes provisions relating to autonomous rights to the tribals over natural resources at the place where they live," he said.
It also prescribes that without the consent of the village panchayat, no mining activity could be undertaken in their area, he said.
Rupani was addressing the members of tribals community gathered for "Ger Mela", a festival of adivasis, at Kawant in adjoining Chhotaudepur district, about 120km from here.

The chief minister maintained the prohibition law, recently amended to add teeth to it, will be strictly implemented in the BJP-ruled state.

"My government is sensitive towards tribals, the poor, Dalits and women. This government is compassionate and understands the pain and hopes of the people."
"We have decided to start a medical college in each of the tribal-dominated district to enable tribal students to get admission, become doctors and serve their community," he said.
The government will provide free treatment to tribals suffering from sickle cell anaemia, Rupani said.