Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram on Tuesday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the holistic development of tribal communities, stating that transparency, inclusivity, and efficiency are the core principles driving tribal welfare programs under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Speaking at an event in New Delhi, the minister emphasized that the vision of a developed India cannot be achieved without empowering and uplifting tribal communities. “A community once politically marginalized is now playing a central role in the nation’s development journey,” he said.
Oram credited the Modi government for ensuring effective implementation of inclusive policies over the past 11 years, which have significantly transformed the lives of tribal families. He noted that while the Ministry of Tribal Affairs was founded in 1999 under former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, it has achieved real expansion and impact under PM Modi.
Highlighting achievements in education, Oram said over 700 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) have been established with a budget of ₹25,000 crore, ensuring access to quality education for lakhs of tribal children. He also spoke about the financial empowerment of tribal artisans and entrepreneurs, who are now finding opportunities in national and global markets.
Praising the dignity and resilience of tribal communities, the minister remarked, “They do not believe in begging. They live with dignity and survive through hard work — and that is their true strength.”
Oram concluded by hailing Prime Minister Modi as a true champion of tribal welfare and a key force behind the transformation in tribal policy and empowerment.
