Condition of tribals pathetic in Kerala: Commission

Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 24 (UNI) Terming as ''pathetic'' the condition of tribals in Kerala, the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes today said most of the tribal hamlets in this literate state lacked basic amenities like drinking water, roads, health care centres and electricity connections.

The tribal villages in some of the hamlets were in a very bad condition, Commission Chairman Kunwar Singh told reporters after a review meeting of the state-level programmes.

"I thought, Kerala being a highly literate state, situation of tribals would be much better than other states. But, I found that their condition was worse compared to other states", Singh said.

He said that one of the major problems faced by the tribals was they were not able to cultivate the lands given to them due to many reasons. The Government should take steps for proper utilisation of tribal lands, he added.

Mr Singh also remarked that relaxation in qualifying marks for professional courses should be considered for the tribal students.

UNI