OCT 16:Minister for Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, conducted a comprehensive review of the PM Van Dhan Yojana implementation across Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing a holistic approach to tribal empowerment through entrepreneurship, skill development, and sustainable livelihood generation.
During the review meeting, the Minister evaluated the progress of Van Dhan Vikas Kendras and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) operating under the scheme, which aims to enhance the income of tribal communities through value addition of Minor Forest Produce (MFP). He commended the efforts made by field officers and implementing agencies but urged them to accelerate activities in underserved and remote tribal regions to ensure equitable development.
Javed Ahmed Rana underscored the need for a multi-pronged strategy focusing on entrepreneurial training, product diversification, market access, and preservation of traditional crafts and skills. He directed officials to link tribal artisans and producers with e-commerce platforms, cooperatives, and government marketing networks, thereby opening wider national and global markets for their products.
Highlighting the importance of community-led development, the Minister said that the Van Dhan Yojana is not merely a livelihood scheme but a movement to foster self-reliance, dignity, and socio-economic inclusion among tribal populations. He called for the integration of modern technology with traditional wisdom to improve productivity and quality standards in tribal enterprises.
The Minister also directed that capacity-building workshops, financial literacy programs, and access to credit facilities be expanded to empower tribal youth and women entrepreneurs. He emphasized the creation of sustainable value chains for forest produce and handicrafts that can ensure consistent income and employment opportunities throughout the year.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, Javed Ahmed Rana said that the PM Van Dhan Yojana will continue to be a cornerstone initiative in achieving long-term tribal welfare and ecological balance in Jammu and Kashmir.
