NCST Member holds interactive meeting in Leh
LEH: Former Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor of the BJP-led Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh, Adv. Tashi Gyalson, along with former CEC Gyal P. Wangyal, raised a range of issues concerning the tribal community of Ladakh before the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), seeking recommendations and appropriate action on welfare, livelihood, education, tourism and healthcare-related concerns.
The issues were raised during a meeting-cum-interactive session with NCST Member Dr Asha Lakra and Hussain Nayak at Hotel Zen Ladakh.
Gyalson and the BJP leaders sought the Commission’s intervention and recommendations on several matters affecting tribal communities, including the rationalisation of wildlife sanctuary boundaries and Hemis National Park, protection of tribal interests in the tourism sector and improved access to government welfare schemes.
The delegation also raised the issue of benefits under scholarship schemes and sought coaching support for students appearing in competitive examinations.
Enhancement of old-age pensions was among the social welfare measures placed before the Commission, while the leaders also sought special support for self-help groups and greater assistance for tribal entrepreneurs.
Measures to strengthen entrepreneurship opportunities and market linkages were also discussed, with the participants seeking greater institutional support to improve livelihood prospects for communities in the region.
Healthcare access formed another part of the submissions, with the BJP leaders seeking a recommendation for special reservation for patients from Ladakh at AIIMS and PGI, among other issues.
Dr Lakra heard the concerns raised during the interaction and recorded the issues for further necessary action and recommendations, according to the statement.
The meeting brought together political representatives, former elected members, civil society representatives, NGOs and officials from various departments of the Union Territory, besides representatives of the NCST.
Former councillors Lobzang Sherab, Sonam Norboo and Kunzang Lotus, along with former BDC Tsewang Gyatso, attended the meeting.
LAHDC Kargil Executive Councillor Aga Syed Mujtaba Mussavi and Executive Councillor Syed Ali were also present.
The interaction provided a platform for representatives from different sections to place issues relating to tribal welfare and development before the statutory body responsible for safeguarding the interests of Scheduled Tribes.
