National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), which is on a three-day official visit to the state of Goa, has undertaken a comprehensive state-level review to assess the issues and developmental progress concerning the Scheduled Tribes in the State.
Addressing a press conference in Panaji today, the Commission’s Chairperson Antar Singh Arya shared details about the visit and the review meetings conducted during the tour. He was accompanied by senior Commission members Nirupam Chakma and Dr. Asha Lakra.
During the visit, the Commission held discussions with the State Government on a range of issues affecting the Scheduled Tribes in the State. Arya said that the Commission has provided several key recommendations to the Government for addressing these concerns. He emphasised the need to preserve tribal culture among tribal youth and highlighted the importance of raising awareness within the community. He said that the active participation of tribal youth in the mainstream would greatly contribute to their socio-economic development.
One of the major concerns identified by the Commission was the difficulty many tribal individuals in Goa face in obtaining No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from landlords. This hurdle often prevents them from accessing government schemes and benefits. In response, the Commission has directed the State Government to take proactive steps to ensure Svamitvaland ownership rights (land title deeds) for tribal communities.
Arya further stated that all suggestions and feedback received during the review meetings have been documented and will be compiled into a recommendation report, which will be submitted to President Droupadi Murmu. He reaffirmed the NCST’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of Scheduled Tribes through strategic policy interventions and administrative support.
On the second day of the tour today, May 21, the Commission conducted a review meeting in Panaji with the Chief Secretary of Goa Dr. V. Candavelou, Director General of Police Alok Kumar, officials from the Goa State Commission for Scheduled Tribes, the Tribal Welfare Department, and various other stakeholders.
