Panaji, August 31, 2015 …. Stating that the State Government is committed for the welfare of Dhangar Community in the State, Minister for Social Welfare Shri Mahadev Naik has said that the Government is endeavoring for the inclusion of Dhangar Community in Schedule Tribe category.
Addressing a large number of Dhangars from the State who were assembled to commemorate the 22nd anniversary of Gomantak Dhangar Samajonnati Mandal organized in association with Directorate of Social Welfare at a function held at Betora near Ponda yesterday Shri Naik said the long pending issue of inclusion of Dhangars in ST Category needs to be resolved to facilitate the Dhangars to avail benefit of various schemes and ensure their wellbeing. Shri Naik said that the state Government has decided to take all party delegation to New Delhi to put forth the demand and problems of Dhangars and redress them accordingly.
The Social Welfare Minister further informed that eight schemes which are being implemented under various Departments for the upliftment of ST Community are also applicable for Dhangar Samaj, the benefit of which will be extended to Dhangars till their demand for inclusion in ST category is met, he added.
The Minister highlighted the significance of education and mentioned that it is education alone which can bring name and fame and ensure all round development of the children. He advised the students to opt for Technical education to promote self employment and become reliant in life. He said the Government is committed to provide the benefit of welfare schemes to all section of the society irrespective of caste, creed, religion and party affiliations.
Shri Vishnu Surya Wagh, MLA and Chairman Kala Academy speaking on the occasion defended the demand of Dhangar Community for its inclusion in the ST Category keeping in view their long struggle for the status. He said it is the responsibility of Government to pursue their demands with the Central Government for favourable consideration. He called for unity among the Dhangars to redress their woes and the demand for the inclusion in Schedule Tribe category becomes a reality.
Shri Narendra Sawaikar, Member of Parliament said the contribution of the Dhangar Samaj for the development of the State and nation as a whole is immense. Shri Sawaikar was confident that the long pending demand of Dhangars in the State to include them in ST Category will be fulfilled in near future.
Shri Vinay Tendulkar, President Bhartiya Janata Party, Goa unit also spoke on the occasion.
Minister also felicitated for Dhangar community students for securing highest marks in the recently held examination SSC/HSSC on the occasion.
Those who were present on the occasion were Dr. Janu Zore, Dr. Shantaram Surve, Smt. Lambore, Dr. Rajan Lambor, Smt. Meena Naik Goltekar, Director Social Welfare amongst others.
Shri Chandrakant Kavalekar, MLA and President of Gomantak Dhangar Samajonnati Mandal welcomed.
