GADAG:
Deputy Commissioner CN Sridhar has called for the proper implementation and awareness of welfare schemes aimed at nomadic and semi-nomadic communities residing in remote and underdeveloped areas. Chairing the Nomadic/Semi-Nomadic Advisory Committee and Progress Review Meeting of the Backward Classes Welfare Department on Friday, he emphasized the need for targeted outreach to ensure no eligible beneficiary is left out.
“The government has rolled out several schemes for nomadic and semi-nomadic communities. We must ensure their full and effective utilization,” the DC said. He instructed officials to ensure the communities are provided with education, hostels, housing, and timely health check-ups. He also suggested conducting surveys in areas where health services are not yet extended and to initiate medical camps accordingly.
District Backward Classes Welfare Officer Mahbub Thumbaramatti informed that under the pre-matric scholarship scheme, Rs 8.8 lakh was sanctioned to 340 students, and Rs 12.73 lakh was granted to 151 post-matric students for the year 2024-25. Additionally, 71 houses were sanctioned under the housing scheme for the year 2022–23. For 2025–26, a proposal has been submitted for the development of infrastructure such as CC roads and high-mast lights in settlements of these communities.
Committee members including Kenchappa Helavara, Vitthal Ganachari, Rajendra Bailapattara, Manikantha Srinivas, MH Makanadara, and Harish Poojar shared suggestions to strengthen outreach and delivery of benefits.
The meeting was attended by Zilla Panchayat Chief Planning Officer Nirmala, Planning Director Chalageri, District Health Officer Dr SS Neelgund, Women and Child Development Deputy Director Padmavati, and officials from various departments.
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DC Sridhar said: “All government benefits must reach the nomadic and semi-nomadic communities, and steps should be taken to integrate them into the mainstream of society.”