Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Jual Oram, Assures Support for Key Development Projects in Himachal Pradesh.
New Delhi:
A delegation of Lahaul-Spiti district BJP unit led by former MLA Ravi Thakur met the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Jual Oram in Delhi to discuss several crucial issues concerning the tribal regions of Himachal Pradesh. The delegation, led by Ravi Thakur, presented a series of requests to the minister, seeking assistance for the development of infrastructure, employment generation, and conservation of cultural heritage in the state.
The key demands put forth by the delegation included:
- Increased Compensation for Land Acquisition: The delegation requested that the compensation for land acquired under the Tribal Area Land Acquisition Act for the construction of the SKTT Road be raised fivefold. They also proposed that the road, which currently stretches from Udaipur to Tindi, be paved, thus enhancing connectivity in the region.
- Employment Opportunities for Locals: The delegation urged the minister to ensure that local residents are provided with employment opportunities in these developmental projects, particularly those related to the SKTT Road construction.
- Construction of Buddhist Stupa (Chorten) near Atal Tunnel: Another significant proposal was to construct a Buddhist Stupa (Chorten) at the northern end of the Atal Tunnel in Rohtang. The delegation emphasized that this would promote tourism and preserve the region’s cultural heritage.
- Funding for Water Supply and Irrigation Projects: The delegation also advocated for sufficient funds to be allocated for the “Lift Drinking Water and Flow Irrigation Project” in the Lahaul-Spiti region, which would improve water availability for local communities and agriculture.
- Development of Rewalsar Buddhist Monastery: A request was made for the construction of a rest house (sarai) at the Triveni Sangam site near the Rewalsar Buddhist Monastery in the Mandi district. This would cater to the growing number of pilgrims and tourists visiting the religious site.
Union Minister Jual Oram, responding positively to these requests, assured the delegation that he would take immediate steps to fulfill the proposed projects. He also expressed his willingness to visit the districts personally to assess the ground realities and expedite the approval of funds. The minister’s quick and constructive response has been hailed as a significant step towards ensuring the region’s development and betterment of the tribal communities.
