Daijiworld Media Network - Sanguem

Sanguem, Jul 4: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has announced that the Kunbi village project in Sanguem will be completed within the next three months, with financial support of Rs 10 cr from the central government.

He was speaking at a mega outreach event organised by the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the Directorate of Tribal Welfare at the Sanguem Municipal Council Hall. Sawant, who also holds the tribal welfare portfolio, underlined the BJP-led government’s deep commitment to tribal development, calling it a core part of the party's ideology.

Highlighting various tribal-focused initiatives, Sawant said, “The first-of-its-kind Tribal Research Centre has started functioning in Sanguem to study tribal issues, including health and cultural concerns. The Tribal Museum at Farmagudi will also be completed shortly.”

He added that tribals have been given a platform to market and sell traditional products like the Kunbi saree, shawls, and jackets. “The upcoming Kunbi village in Sanguem will enhance this effort and is being constructed at a cost of Rs 10 cr sanctioned by the union government,” he noted.

So far, 3,500 forest rights sanads have been issued to tribal communities, with the government aiming to complete all pending issuances by December 19. “We are working in mission mode,” Sawant asserted.

The Chief Minister also mentioned that under the Dharti Aaba Janbhagidari Abhiyan, schemes from 18 government departments are being directed to 25 tribal-majority villages across the state.

He further stated that the Tribal Welfare Department has been revamped and highlighted key achievements such as the creation of the Tribal Commission and the Goa State Scheduled Tribes Finance and Development Corporation Limited.

In a subtle jibe aimed at former tribal affairs minister Govind Gaude, Sawant remarked, “Some say I’ve done nothing, but I share a deep emotional bond with my tribal brothers. Those with just blood ties have come and gone.”