Kumar Bahukhandi
Principal Secretary Sonmoni Borah chairs a high-level review meeting of the Tribal, Scheduled Caste, Backward Class and Minority Development Department in Raipur , outlining a roadmap to strengthen tribal education, hostel infrastructure and student welfare across Chhattisgarh-Photo Credit -Arrangements .
Key Factors
- 450 modern ashram-hostels to be constructed across Chhattisgarh by 2027.
- 150 hostel buildings targeted for completion within the next six months.
- Nearly 1,000 Poshan Vatikas to be established by September.
- Special training programmes planned for hostel superintendents.
- Student safety, especially for girl students, placed at the highest priority.
- Nutrition and healthy cooking training to improve hostel food quality.
- Preparations begin for Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas and Rajyotsav.
- Department instructed to strengthen tribal cultural promotion through regular training.
- Greater emphasis placed on quality, accountability and timely implementation of welfare programmes.
Tribal Welfare Department targets student-centric infrastructure, nutrition, safety and cultural development; 150 hostels to be completed within six months
Raipur : The Chhattisgarh Government has launched a major initiative to strengthen educational infrastructure for tribal students, with 450 modern ashram-hostel buildings planned for completion across the state by 2027.
Reviewing the functioning of the Tribal, Scheduled Caste, Backward Class and Minority Development Department, Principal Secretary Sonmoni Borah directed officials to ensure that the department’s focus extends beyond infrastructure to creating a safe, inspiring and student-friendly residential environment.
He said the ambitious programme, being implemented under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, will significantly improve educational and residential facilities for students from remote and tribal regions.
“Our objective is not merely to construct buildings but to create safe, sensitive and quality learning environments where every student can thrive.”
— Sonmoni Borah, Principal Secretary150 New Hostels to Be Ready Within Six Months
During the review meeting, Borah instructed officials to complete 150 new-format ashram-hostel buildings within the next six months, stressing that project timelines must be adhered to without compromise.
Expressing concern over delays in certain construction works, he directed regular monitoring to ensure timely execution and high construction standards.
The meeting reviewed infrastructure projects, hostel management and the implementation status of various welfare schemes.
1,000 Poshan Vatikas Planned by September
To improve students’ nutrition and encourage sustainable food practices, the department has been directed to establish nearly 1,000 Poshan Vatikas (nutritional gardens) across ashram-hostels by September.
The initiative aims to supplement hostel kitchens with fresh vegetables and promote healthy dietary habits among students.
Training for Hostel Superintendents
Highlighting the importance of compassionate administration, Borah instructed that special training programmes be organised for hostel and ashram superintendents, with particular emphasis on newly appointed officers.
The sessions will focus on leadership, communication skills, student welfare and responsible hostel management.
He also suggested inviting renowned motivational speakers to help officials develop a student-centric approach.
“Training should go beyond administrative procedures and become a platform for leadership development, behavioural change and responsible public service.”
Safety of Girl Students Top Priority
The Principal Secretary emphasised that the safety, dignity, health and education of girl students must remain the department’s highest priority.
He instructed officials to incorporate dedicated sessions on gender sensitivity, counselling, mental well-being, hygiene and student protection into training programmes.
Officials were directed to ensure that every hostel provides a secure and respectful environment for female students.
Focus on Nutrition and Healthy Meals
The department also decided to strengthen food quality in hostels by introducing specialised training on cooking and nutrition.
Superintendents and kitchen staff will be trained to prepare balanced and nutritious meals using locally available seasonal ingredients to improve students’ overall health.
Preparations Begin for Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas and Rajyotsav
Reviewing cultural activities, Borah directed officials to immediately begin preparations for Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, Rajyotsav, and other important state events.
He instructed the department to organise regular training for tribal dance troupes and cultural groups so that Chhattisgarh’s rich tribal heritage can be showcased effectively at state and national platforms.
The review meeting was attended by Dr. Jagdish Sonkar, Managing Director of the Antyavasayi Finance and Development Corporation, D. Rahul Venkat, Commissioner, Tribal Welfare Department, officials of the Tribal Research and Training Institute (TRTI), and other senior departmental officers.
