Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha engaged in a meaningful interaction with a 120-member delegation representing the Pahari Community at the esteemed Raj Bhawan on Monday.
During the session, the Lieutenant Governor reaffirmed the UT Administration’s unwavering commitment to extending the benefits of Scheduled Tribes reservation to the Pahari, Padari, Koli, and Gadda Brahmin communities this year. He assured their inclusion in Tribal plan schemes, underscoring the administration’s dedication to equitable development and social justice.
Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for championing the empowerment of the Pahari community while safeguarding the interests of Gujjar, Bakarwals, and other listed tribes, prominent Pahari leaders emphasized unity and collaboration in nation-building endeavors.
Former Deputy Chief Minister, Muzaffar Hussain Baig, lauded the Central Government and UT Administration for addressing the longstanding demands of the Paharis and other communities, marking a historic milestone in their journey towards empowerment.
Echoing sentiments of liberation and empowerment, Pahari leader Rafiq Shah hailed the culmination of decades-long struggle, emphasizing newfound empowerment and freedom.
Senior leader Vibodh Gupta emphasized the collective efforts of Gujjar, Bakarwal, and Pahari communities towards the holistic development of Jammu and Kashmir. He underscored the pivotal role of Scheduled Tribes in the UT’s developmental trajectory.
Dinesh Sharma celebrated the government’s historic decision to grant scheduled tribe status to Paharis, Padari Tribes, Koli, and Gadda Brahmin, heralding a new era of inclusive growth and development aligned with the vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas. Reflecting on the dawn of new prosperity, Flail Singh expressed optimism for the bright future of the Pahari community and its youth.
Raja Ajaz commended the government’s proactive measures under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister and Hon’ble Home Minister, fostering a conducive atmosphere for the Pahari community and the entire border belt.
Anjum, Pradeep Sharma, Iqbal Malik, and Murtaza Khan extended gratitude to the UT Administration for serving as a conduit between the Pahari community and the Government of India, ensuring justice and representation for their community.
In response, the Lieutenant Governor assured the delegation of prompt action on the issues raised, promising implementation in both letter and spirit. He urged community elders to establish a Samiti comprising prominent members for seamless coordination with Government Officials on community-centric matters.
The interaction witnessed the presence of Safina Baig, Chairperson, District Development Council Baramulla, senior political leaders, former PRI members, retired government officials, community elders, and youth leaders, fostering a collective spirit of collaboration and progress.