Anurag Bajpai (IFS) Additional Chief Secretary of Manipur (TA & Hills, TCI) in addition to PCCF & HoFF, Government of Manipur on Thursday launched 2 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) scheme especially for Maram PVTG under Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) at Senapati.
The Maram tribe of Manipur is identified as PVTG (Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups) amongst Manipur’s Scheduled Tribes and is found in Senapati and Kangpokpi Districts.
Through this scheme, the Government of India aims to improve the livelihoods of tribal communities by utilizing Minor Forest Produce (MFP) for socio-economic upliftment. The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and TRIFED.
In order to uplift their status, the Government of India has several schemes focused on the development of PVTGs. These schemes aim to improve the socio-economic conditions of these communities by addressing their unique needs and challenges. One such key initiative is the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN), which operates through convergence with existing government programs and focuses on providing basic amenities and livelihood opportunities to the PVTG group.
The Chief Guest of the function Anurag Bajpai, remarked that the occasion is “Very Sacred” as it is related to people directly. He used the word sacred as the launch of this scheme will improve the livelihood and economy of not only the individual but also the entire district and the society at large. He hopes that the launching of this scheme will be the starting point of a better life with dignity for the people.
Anurag Bajpai also highlighted that the source of their income is directly related to the forest. For this, he urged all the stakeholders particularly women to come forward and protect the forest to ensure sustained income. He emphasised that the Maram tribe are the sole custodians of the resources found in Maram and it needs to be protected and move towards sustainable growth. He also assured that the Forest department will help and provide technical support to replenish the lost resources. He hopes that the forest department along with district administration can lead towards the holistic development of tribal communities in Senapati through interventions like PM JANMAN and PM DAJGUA.
Organised by the Senapati Forest Division, the launching programme was held at Multipurpose Hall, Senapati and was attended by Gaithaolu Thaimei (IFS), CCF (T-II) cum Nodal Officer, TRIFED, Arun R.S. (IFS) CF, L.N Kashung (IAS) Director TA & Hills, Mamoni Doley (IAS) Deputy Commissioner of Senapati and Shaikh Mohd. Zaid Zakir (IPS) SP of Senapati. Around 300 members from different villages of Maram tribe attended the program.
