Odisha Government Makes U-Turn, Withdraws Controversial Tribal Land Transfer Decision

The Odisha government has reversed its decision to allow tribals to transfer their land to non-tribals, a move that had faced intense criticism. The cabinet, led by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, also approved a new scheme aimed at empowering around one crore tribal people in the state.

In a significant move ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha and Odisha Assembly elections, the state government of Odisha has withdrawn its earlier decision on tribal land transfer and approved a new scheme that will benefit approximately one crore tribal people.

Withdrawal of Tribal Land Transfer Decision

The cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, approved a proposal to withdraw the November 14, 2023 decision that allowed tribals to transfer their land to non-tribals by amending the Odisha Scheduled Areas Transfer of Immovable Property By Scheduled Tribes Regulation. The decision had faced intense criticism from various quarters, leading the state government to put it on hold. The cabinet's approval to withdraw the earlier decision was announced in an official note.

New Scheme for Tribal Development

The state government announced a new scheme called Laghu Bana Jatiya Drabya Kraya (LABHA) for the development of tribals. Under this scheme, the government will provide a 100% state-funded minimum support price (MSP) for minor forest produce (MFP). Considering that approximately 99% of MFP activities are carried out by tribals, this initiative aims to support their livelihoods. The minimum support price will be determined annually by the state government.

Establishment of Commission for Tribal Languages

The cabinet also approved the establishment of a Commission for the Preservation and Promotion of Tribal Languages of Scheduled Tribes of Odisha. This commission will focus on preserving and promoting 21 tribal languages in Odisha. Its objectives include encouraging multilingual education, documenting and preserving tribal languages, promoting their use, and protecting linguistic rights.

Inclusion of Communities in ST List and 8th Schedule

The cabinet passed a resolution for the inclusion of 169 communities in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list of Odisha. The meeting unanimously resolved to reiterate the state government's demand for the inclusion of these communities in the ST list. Additionally, a unanimous resolution was passed to reiterate the inclusion of Ho, Mundari, Kui, and Saora languages in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution.

The Odisha government's decisions to withdraw the tribal land transfer decision, announce a new scheme for tribal development, establish a commission for tribal languages, and reiterate demands for the inclusion of communities in the ST list and languages in the 8th Schedule demonstrate its commitment to empowering and supporting the tribal population of the state.