Mysuru: ‘Effective implementation of Tribal Welfare Schemes hold key to tribal development,’ said Karnataka State Tribal Research Institute (KSTRI) Director Prof. T.T. Basavanagouda.

He was speaking at the one-day workshop on ‘Integrated Tribal Development Schemes for overall development of Tribal communities living in the forests and forest borders’, organised by KSTRI at the Administrative Training Institute (ATI) on Lalitha Mahal road here yesterday.

Pointing out that the State Government has set aside Rs. 200 crore this year for tribal development, Prof. Basavanagouda said that a Tribal Development Council has been set up to oversee implementation of tribal development schemes and initiatives at all levels.

Noting that the workshop is aimed at discussing the most practical ways for improvement in tribal lifestyle, up-gradation of occupational skills and others key issues related to the welfare of tribal communities, he underlined the need to focus on social, economical, academic and health issues concerning tribals.

Stating that there were over 50 tribal communities in 30 districts of the State having their own distinctive lifestyles and culture, Prof. Basavanagouda said it was all the more important that all tribal development initiatives reached the targetted communities.

Earlier, leaders of various tribal communities inaugurated the workshop by lighting the lamp.

LAMP Society President Krishnaiah, Vivekananda Youth Movement’s Balasubramaniam, Yerava community leader Kaveriah, Soliga community leader Madegowda, Hakkipikki tribe leader Kumuda, Betta Samudaya leader Chikkamma and others were present. More than 150 tribal leaders and representatives of different organisations working for tribal welfare are taking part in this day-long camp.