Leaders, officials must help tribals join mainstream: Government

MYSURU: Tribals residing in deep forests need to live in civilized society so as to avoid being discriminated. Political leaders and government officers must work in tandem for their development, said social welfare minister H Anjaneya.
After inaugurating Tribal Utsav organized by Karnataka State Tribal Research Institute (KSTRI) at Fine Arts College in Manasagangotri campus here on Saturday, the minister said that many people form backward classes are suffering because of social discrimination like untouchability."But now, some of them have joined mainstream with the help of education, and occupied various positions in organizations. Thus, many of them are avoiding being discriminated. But tribals living in forests are still being humiliated. They can end this by coming out of forests," he said.
Citing some tribal communities in the state, the minister said: "Many people are living in the wild, amidst tigers and elephants. Some of them many have lost lives due to man-animal conflicts. The government is striving to help tribals. The authorities must ensure their development by providing facilities like water and infrastructure."
Further, Anjaneya said that tribal youths are talented. "There is a need to recognize such youths and tap their talents. To encourage and to promote them, KSTRI has contributed Rs 50,000 each for troupes of Koragas of Dakshina Kannada and Jenu Kuraba communities," he added.
KSTRI director T T Basavanagowda said that Utsav is an opportunity for civilized society to enjoy and gain knowledge on various tribal communities in the state. "It is also an opportunity for tribals to showcase their lifestyle, food and culture among people," he added.
Procession
Various tribal troupes from Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, Chikkamagaluru, Kodagu, HD Kote and Chamarajanagar demonstrated their folk talent while taking part in a procession from Maharaja's College Grounds to Fine Arts College. Anjaneya also walked a distance in the procession. Over 20 tribal communities from across the state showcased their culture.
Tribal expo
In a move to encourage entrepreneurship among tribals and to promote their produce, the social welfare department has organized an exhibition-cum-sale of tribal handicrafts. A range of forest products like medicinal items, honey bee, antique ware, ornaments, agricultural equipment and household items of tribals are on display.
Tribal museum
The government is chalking out a plan to set up a museum to document history, tradition and culture of tribals in the state. "We have been collecting items belonging to different tribal communities to be exhibited in museum. Tribals their own lifestyle, tradition and culture, of which many are vanishing. We want them to protect and preserve for posterity," Anjanyea said.
Revenue minister V Srinivas Prasad, Mysuru ZP president B Pushpa Amarnath, Mysuru deputy mayor Mahadevamma and others were present.