'Education oriented programme will uplift ST'

Bangalore, Jan 9: Karnataka Social Welfare Department Principal Secretary R B Agwane today called for evolving education oriented programmes to uplift Scheduled Tribes in the country.

Speaking after inaugurating a one-day Southern Region Workshop of State Chanalising Agency organised by National Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC) here, he said there was need to increase the literacy level among Scheduled Tribes.

Mr Agwane also called for evolving schemes to improve living condition of people belonging to ST. "Smaller projects would go a long way in improving economic condition of the people. Small loans, Micro Finance and Education loans are need of the hour for improving overall condition of the people belonging to ST", he added.

NSTFDC Chairman and Managing Director Bhavani in her opening remarks said that the Corporation has sanctioned Rs 425 Crore this year with beneficiaries being 18 lakhs in the country.

She said that there is need to rejuvenate the activities of the Corporation, especially in Southern States, to reach the needy in every nook and corner.

Representatives from Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Lakshadweep besides Karnataka are attending the Workshop.

UNI