The Union Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, Jaswantsinh Bhabhor called on Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Chamling on Thursday evening at his official residence at Mintogang in Gangtok.
He stated that the Central government is ready to enhance the loan amount under the National Scheduled Tribe Finance Development Corporation for income generating activities, provided the State Government gives a Rs five crore guarantee.
The Union minister also said that the State Government can propose for a fifth EMRS, in addition to the already existing and fully functional four EMRS Schools.
He said that the new EMRS should be proposed in an area having population of over 20,000.
Bhabhor also requested for a shop/outlet of TRIFED at M.G. Marg Gangtok where tribal products can be kept on display and sale.
Further, he urged the State Government to expedite the paper work for the proposed Tribal Research Institute at Assam Lingzey in East Sikkim so that the foundation stone can be laid at the earliest.
The Union minister said that the State is doing exceptionally well in the implementation of tribal schemes and assured continuous assistance from the Central government.
Chief Minister Pawan Chamling said that all the issues placed by the Union Minister of State would be taken up on priority by the State government. He gave his assurance for the guarantee for Rupees Five Crores from the State government for the enhancement of loans.
Chamling also shared some of the unique environmental initiatives of the State government and other highlights of the State. He shared that the tribals of Sikkim have the highest per capita income property in the country. He further shared that Sikkim is a poverty-free State where the basic minimum needs of the people have been fulfilled. He said that Sikkim is a model of secularity and inclusive development.
