HYDERABAD, JAN 10 : Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy announced a series of significant initiatives for the welfare and development of tribal communities during a meeting with tribal leaders and organisations at the Secretariat on Friday.

Among the key announcements was the decision to officially celebrate the birth anniversary of tribal warrior Komuram Bheem as a state function. The Chief Minister directed Principal Secretary Shanthikumari to issue immediate orders for this purpose.

During the meeting, tribal leaders highlighted various challenges, including transportation, agriculture, drinking water supply, education, employment, and financial issues.

They also brought up concerns about cases registered against tribal members. Listening attentively, the Chief Minister promptly addressed several issues and directed officials to conduct a detailed study on unresolved matters, with a report to follow.

The Chief Minister assured tribal leaders of regular engagement, stating that meetings would be held every four months to review the implementation of decisions and address emerging issues.

He emphasised that any cases registered against tribals during protests would be withdrawn, with legislative support if required.

He also highlighted the successful execution of promises made during his earlier meeting in Indravelli, including the establishment of the Indravelli Martyrs’ Memorial and housing for martyrs’ families.

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy announced focused efforts on improving the education and economic opportunities for tribal students. He directed officials to establish a dedicated study circle for tribal students, complete with a new building and adequate funding.

He assured that all pending scholarship applications would be approved and instructed tribal leaders to submit details to Minister Seethakka.

Further, the CM called for a feasibility report on introducing primary education in the Gondi language and ordered the filling of teaching and non-teaching positions in tribal B.Ed colleges at Utnur and Bhadrachalam.

He assured tribal students of priority admissions in the Skill University and guaranteed adequate accommodations for them. The CM also proposed converting ITIs in tribal areas into Advanced Training Centers (ATCs) to enhance skill development.

Reaffirming his commitment to economic development, the Chief Minister announced special housing schemes for tribal families under the CM’s quota, apart from MLA quotas. He instructed officials to allocate houses based on tribal population and ensure housing access for tribals in non-agency areas.

The CM also declared that solar motors with 100 per cent subsidies would be provided to tribal farmers, and steps would be taken to supply solar-powered electricity and pump sets.

He directed officials to explore free borehole schemes under Indira Jala Prabha and launch a special drive to resolve drinking water issues in tribal areas under the Integrated Tribal Development Agencies (ITDAs).

To promote tribal cultural traditions, the CM sanctioned funds for the Keslapur Jatara festival and directed the construction of buildings for stone centers, an essential part of tribal heritage.

He asked officials to identify government land for these centers, assess building requirements, and prepare sample designs in collaboration with the Panchayati Raj Department.

The meeting was attended by prominent tribal leaders, including Khanapur MLA Vedma Bojju, former MP Soyam Bapurao, former MLA Atram Sakku, Professor Gummadi Anuradha, and representatives from tribal organizations, according to an official statement.