Gujarat’s Inclusive Plans for Nomadic Tribes

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Sunday celebrated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to uplifting the nation's most vulnerable, specifically the Nomadic and Denotified Tribes (DNTs), during a State-Level Grand Convention in Ahmedabad.

Addressing the assembly, CM Patel asserted that the long-standing neglect of these communities is now a thing of the past. He credited PM Modi's principle of "Sauno Saath, Sauno Vikas, Sauno Vishwas, Sauno Prayas" (Together, for everyone’s growth, with everyone’s trust, through everyone’s efforts) for ensuring development reaches every segment of society and accelerating the goal of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).

Historical Stigma to Institutional Support

The urgency of this focus stems from the history of the DNTs. The Denotified Tribes (DTs) carry a historical burden, having been stigmatized as “criminal tribes” under a draconian 1871 British-era Act, a social stigma that persisted long after the law was repealed post-independence.

Patel highlighted the government’s comprehensive approach to ending this neglect. Education remains a key priority, with the state having disbursed an impressive ₹297 crore in scholarships to over 27 lakh beneficiaries in the last three years, funding critical support like tuition, hostel expenses, and stipends. Furthermore, ₹105 crore in loan assistance has been provided to 8,448 individuals, fostering self-reliance.

Housing and Cultural Recognition

Social Justice Minister Bhanuben Babariya provided specifics on the institutional changes. She recalled that the ‘Ghar nu Ghar’ (Home of Your Own) scheme, initiated by Modi during his tenure as Chief Minister, is fundamental to providing DNT communities with permanent residences, aiding their transition from migratory to settled lives.

To focus resources, the state created the Gujarat Nomadic and Denotified Tribes Development Corporation (GN-DTDC) in 2015, specifically mandated to uplift the 40 tribes identified as socially and educationally backward.

The convention also celebrated cultural achievement. CM Patel honored Padma Shri awardee Bhanubhai Chitara, recognizing his mastery of the traditional Mata Ni Pachedi craft, an indigenous form of textile art central to Gujarat's cultural heritage.

The Chief Minister concluded by urging citizens to embrace ‘Vocal for Local’ and promote indigenous goods, linking this cultural and economic patriotism directly to the goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).