Will Micro Tribal Belts Be Established in 600 Villages?
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Synopsis
In a bold move to support tribal communities, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma announces the creation of micro tribal belts in 600 villages during the Vijay Sankalp Sabha. This significant initiative aims to strengthen the BJP's foothold in the region ahead of council elections, while also addressing welfare scheme concerns.
Key Takeaways
- Creation of micro tribal belts in 600 villages to support tribal welfare.
- Assurance that existing tribal belts will remain unchanged.
- Critique of the current BTC administration's welfare scheme implementation.
- Commitment to equitable development in the Bodoland region.
- Clarification on cancer treatment costs and health card expenses.
Guwahati, Aug 13 (NationPress) Despite heavy rainfall, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, accompanied by State BJP President Dilip Saikia, attracted a large audience at the Vijay Sankalp Sabha held in Kokrajhar's Chandra Para playground on Wednesday.
The rally, organized within the Bonorgaon constituency of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), aimed to strengthen the BJP's position before the upcoming council elections.
Addressing claims that the BJP is "anti-tribal", the Chief Minister revealed intentions to establish micro tribal belts and blocks in 600 villages and guaranteed that existing tribal belts would remain unchanged.
"Even in our dreams, we do not envision disrupting tribal belts," he stated.
During his speech, Chief Minister Sarma criticized the current BTC administration for hindering the distribution of government welfare benefits to Village Council Development Committees (VCDCs), advocating for necessary policy reforms.
"Welfare schemes in BTR have not been implemented properly. All resources are being funneled solely through VCDCs," he remarked, emphasizing that a BJP-led council in Kokrajhar would promote fair and equal development.
On the sidelines of the event, Sarma addressed media inquiries regarding Dilip Saikia's recent remarks about the Sixth Schedule and tribal belts.
The Chief Minister reinforced the BJP government's commitment to the welfare of tribal communities in Assam.
Moreover, he sought to ease public worries regarding a supposed increase in cancer treatment costs, affirming that no extra charges would be imposed.
Clarifying confusion over the Ayushman Bharat and Ayushman Assam health cards, he assured that all expenses related to these schemes would be covered by the state.
On reports of advance payments being required from patients, he attributed the demand of Rs 10,000 to a procedural misunderstanding, insisting that no such payment is necessary.
The event was attended by Minister Ashok Singhal, senior BJP leaders from the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), and thousands of enthusiastic supporters.
Party officials claimed that the BJP's presence in the region is consistently growing, with even local parties like the United People's Party Liberal (UPPL) and Bodoland People's Front (BPF) recognizing its expanding influence.
Point of View
The announcement of creating micro tribal belts signifies a strategic move by the BJP to enhance its support base among tribal communities in Assam. This initiative, coupled with the criticism of the existing BTC administration, highlights the party's commitment to welfare reforms, though it raises questions about the effectiveness of previous implementations. As the political landscape evolves, the focus remains on ensuring equitable development in the region.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the micro tribal belts?
Micro tribal belts are designated areas aimed at supporting and enhancing the welfare of tribal communities in Assam.
How many villages will be affected?
The initiative will create micro tribal belts in 600 villages across Assam.
What is the BJP's stance on tribal welfare?
The BJP government, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, emphasizes its commitment to the welfare of tribal people and aims to improve the implementation of welfare schemes.
Will existing tribal belts be altered?
No, Chief Minister Sarma assured that existing tribal belts and blocks will remain untouched.
What changes are expected in welfare schemes?
The Chief Minister called for policy reforms to ensure better distribution of welfare benefits, especially to Village Council Development Committees.
