Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 8: The Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, chaired a meeting at the Civil Secretariat today to evaluate the operations of tribal hostels in Jammu and Kashmir.
Joining the Minister were Secretary Tribal Affairs, Prasanna Ramaswamy G, Director of Tribal Affairs, Ghulam Rasool, along with other officials.
The Minister conducted a thorough assessment of the hostels’ operations, focusing on staff adequacy, sanitation improvements, dining provisions, digital learning environments, libraries, and leisure areas to support the academic and personal development of hostel residents.
He instructed the relevant officials to liaise with the respective Deputy Commissioners regarding ongoing construction projects in the districts to ensure timely completion of all initiatives.
Javed Rana also discussed the expansion of the Dharti Aaba Mission to encompass all tribal villages, emphasizing education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. He sought a detailed update on the execution of the scheme aimed at benefiting tribal communities and explored various components pertinent to the initiative and its successful application.
The Secretary of Tribal Affairs provided a summary of the operational status of tribal hostels throughout Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the various ongoing projects funded under the UT Capex Budget 2024-25.
The meeting also delved into the necessity of personnel for the efficient operation of tribal hostels and district-level offices.