Sir,
This has reference to the editorial’Uplifting Weaker Sections'(DE,Oct 14,2015).The announcement by the Chief Minister of J& K, Mufti Mohd. Sayeed at the 34th meeting of the State Advisory Board of Gujjar snd Bakarwal Community at SKICC in Srinagar that a separate Tribal Ministry has been created to ensure empowerment of weaker sections especially, Gujjar and Bakerwals ,should be hailed by one and all.Gujjars and Bakerwals form a sizeable part of the population of our State but by and large,this community has remained the neglected lot for a long time.Most of the people of this community are nomads who drive their flock and livestock to higher reaches in Summer and to the northern plains in winter.Their literacy rate is low and they often remain deprived of educational and other facilities due to their being nomadic.Though the Government has started welfare schemes such as Gujjar and Bakarwal Hostels,Mobile Schools etc, for the people of this community,these welfare measures are insufficient in view of the hardships faced by this community.Now that the present dispensation has passed directions for upgrading GB Schools at Srinagar and Jammu as institutions of excellence on the pattern of Model Schools in the Education Department, enhancement of food stipend in hostels for school children from Rs 50 to Rs 100 and improving condition of existing hostels,distribution of 10,000 solar lights,all these measures will go a big way in uplifting this community and improving their lot.
Gujjars and Bakerwals are hard working community who supply most of the milk and milk products to the people in cities and villages and thus, play an important role in the economy of the state.Their other demands such as Inclusion of Gojri language in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution, construction of dwelling units, free vaccination of animals, healthcare centres, availability of power and water in their areas(dhoks)etc. too need to be considered on priority to better their condition.Special Camps must be organised to prepare their PRCs and ST Category Certificates.Moreover, efforts must be made to bring their animals and flock of sheep and goats under insurance cover to compensate their loss due to heavy rain/snow or wild animals,accidents while moving on the roads, steep hills etc.But it must be ensured that these benefits percolate to the lowest level and the poorest of the community are uplifted to enable them to live an honourable life.
Yours etc…..
Ashok Sharma,
Udhampur.
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