Dajiworld Media Network - Beltangady (SP)
Beltangady, Sep 3: Dakshina Kannada district deputy commissioner, Dr Jagadish, visited five Koraga families which are living under the shelters made of plastic and tarpaulin pieces inside forest at Atrinje in Navara village within Sulkery gram panchayat limits on Friday September 2.
It may be recalled that Dajiworld had come out with story about the trials and tribulations faced by these Koraga families currently living in very difficult situation and the fact that they have to cross a rivulet flowing by the side of their house for every activity by walking on a tree laid across it.
The deputy commissioner noted that out of about 600 acres of revenue land in Nayidaguri area in Sulkery village, 250 acres is covered by forest. He asked officials to identify sites which are suitable for building houses, leaving aside forest land. He instructed revenue and forest department to conduct joint survey and file report.
The Koraga families told Jagadeesh that they decided to shift here as they were living hitherto in rented houses. The DC told them that the government will identify ten cents of land to each of the families elsewhere and subject to their approval, they can choose to live there. The government will facilitate them to secure title deeds, house construction, and water supply, followed by basic amenities. There they will get support to conduct their cottage industries, dairying, poultry farming or any other activity of their choice, he told them.
Harish and Babu, members of these families requested for agricultural land. But the DC said it is not possible now. Once they settle here and get identified as regular residents here, they can be given additional land thereafter. He said if they so want, the district administration can arrange for providing them training to pursue any of the employment of their choice.
Dr Jagadish warned tahsildar and other officials not to go against the wishes of these Koraga families or evict them. Puttur assistant commissioner, Dr Rajendra, tahsildar, Tippesway, revenue inspector, Doddamani, social welfare officer, Mohan etc were present.