Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati on Monday called for the inclusive and dignified development of the State’s Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), saying the vision of Viksit Odisha and Viksit Bharat can be realised only when every citizen progresses with dignity and equal opportunity.
Addressing the conclave on “Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) of Odisha – Way Ahead” at Lok Bhavan, the governor said the holistic development of PVTGs is a national priority. He said empowering these communities would strengthen Odisha’s contribution to India’s inclusive and sustainable development.
Highlighting Odisha’s tribal heritage, Dr. Kambhampati said the State is home to 13 PVTGs, the highest among all States in the country. He said these communities possess rich traditions, indigenous knowledge, unique languages and vibrant cultural practices.
He stressed that development efforts should improve access to education, healthcare, livelihoods and infrastructure while preserving their cultural identity and traditional way of life.
The governor cited the achievement of Champa Raspeda of the Didayi community in Malkangiri, who became the first girl from her community to qualify NEET and secure admission to Fakir Mohan Medical College and Hospital, Balasore. He said her success showed how quality education and opportunity could help tribal youth realise their potential.
Dr. Kambhampati also appreciated the initiatives of the Central and Odisha governments to improve education, healthcare, connectivity, livelihoods and social security for PVTGs while safeguarding their traditional rights and heritage.
During the programme, the governor released the “Socio-Cultural, Demographic, Nutrition and Health Status of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) of Odisha: A Technical Report” and lauded the Tribal Cell of Lok Bhavan for publishing the Tribal Photo Essay Book Series.
Interacting with participants, he reviewed the implementation of welfare schemes, including PM-JANMAN and the Jal Jeevan Mission, and stressed the need to increase awareness so eligible beneficiaries can fully access government support.
Expressing confidence that the conclave’s recommendations would help shape future policies, the Governor urged all stakeholders to ensure that development and cultural preservation progress together.
The conclave was jointly organised by the Tribal Cell of Lok Bhavan and SCSTRTI. It brought together policymakers, academicians, researchers, voluntary organisations, officials and representatives of PVTG communities for discussions on their socio-economic development and cultural preservation. First Lady Jayashree Kambhampati attended the programme, while Commissioner-cum-Secretary to the Governor Dr. Roopa Roshan Sahoo coordinated the conclave.