Odisha Chief Minister Launches Financial Scheme for Tribal Students at Adivasi Fair

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the annual 'Adivasi Mela' and launched the 'Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Yojana'. This initiative aims to reduce dropout rates among tribal students. The scheme provides Rs 5,000 to each tribal student in classes 9 and 11 attending government or aided schools. On Sunday, Rs 80 crore was transferred to 1.6 lakh tribal students.

The financial aid targets students who often leave school to support their families. Majhi stated that around 2 lakh tribal students will benefit annually. He emphasised that with tribals forming a quarter of Odisha's population, their development is crucial for the state's progress. Despite 75 years of independence, tribals remain disadvantaged in health, education, and livelihood.

Development Initiatives for Tribal Regions

The government plans to establish development councils in northern and southern Odisha to address regional imbalances where many tribals reside. Majhi criticised the previous BJD government for attempting to transfer tribal land to non-tribals, a move opposed by indigenous people and opposition parties. This decision was later halted.

Majhi highlighted that the new government reversed this decision within six months by convening a Tribal Advisory Council (TAC) meeting. "Now, no one can grab land parcels of tribals," he asserted. He also accused former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik of neglecting tribal development by not holding regular TAC meetings.

Adivasi Mela: Celebrating Tribal Culture

The 'Adivasi Mela-2025', organised by the ST & SC Development, Minorities & Backward Classes Welfare Department, will run until January 15. This year's fair features 20 tribal huts, 147 stalls, live demonstrations, a food court, art and handicraft stalls, and the Bhagwan Birsa Munda Pavilion.

The pavilion will host exhibitions on Birsa Munda's biography and contributions of freedom fighters from Odisha and India. Visitors can enjoy a drawing exhibition, mini theatre, and photography displays across five galleries. Additionally, a laser show on Birsa Munda's life and a drone show on Odisha's tribal communities are planned.

A light and sound show on Odisha's tribal freedom fighters will be featured at the fair along with fashion and fireworks displays. These events aim to celebrate and promote awareness of tribal culture and history.