Ganderbal :District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Ganderbal, in partnership with the Tehsil Legal Services Committee (TLSC) Kangan, successfully organized a special programme to commemorate World Tribal Day at Government High School (GHS) Surfraw. The event was aimed to raise awareness about the rights of tribal communities, preserve their rich cultural heritage and encourage active participation in legal and developmental processes.
On the occasion, Mufti Nahida, Chairperson TLSC Kangan, delivered a compelling keynote address as the chief guest, resonating deeply with the audience. She highlighted the significance of World Tribal Day, emphasizing that it not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage and traditions of tribal communities but also serves as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility to safeguard their rights and dignity. Mufti Nahida called upon all stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, educators, and community leaders, to collaborate towards the holistic development of tribal populations. She also underscored the vital role of legal services institutions in ensuring access to free and fair justice for marginalized communities, promoting social justice and equality.
Qamardin Lone, Zonal Education Officer (ZEO) Hariganiwan, brought an educational perspective to the programme, underscoring the crucial role of the education department in providing inclusive learning opportunities for children from tribal backgrounds. He informed the audience about special initiatives, including scholarships, hostels, and outreach programmes, designed to boost enrollment and retention rates among tribal students, thereby promoting educational empowerment and social equity.
Asmat Amin, Assistant Legal Aid Defense Counsel (LADC) Ganderbal, delivered an informative address as a resource person, shedding light on the legal provisions, constitutional safeguards, and special protections afforded to Scheduled Tribes under Indian law. She provided an in-depth analysis of landmark legislations, including the Forest Rights Act, 2006, and elucidated the crucial role of legal aid services in empowering tribal communities to assert their rights related to land, livelihood, and cultural identity.
Asima Khaliq, Assistant Legal Aid Defense Counsel (LADC), served as the second resource person, highlighting the various welfare schemes launched by the government to promote the development of Scheduled Tribes. She emphasized the significance of education, skill development, and access to healthcare as essential components for empowering tribal populations. In her inspiring address, she encouraged students to cherish their rich heritage while also embracing modern opportunities to enhance their quality of life, fostering a balance between tradition and progress.
.Farooq Ahmad Khatana, President of the Human Rights & Anti-Corruption Forum ST Wing J&K, ably anchored the occasion, seamlessly guiding the event’s flow and introducing the key speakers to the audience. In his opening remarks, he underscored the significance of such awareness initiatives in bridging the gap between tribal communities and the resources available for their upliftment, setting the tone for a meaningful and impactful event.
The event was marked by enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, and community members, who actively engaged in interactive sessions. These sessions provided a platform for attendees to ask questions, share their experiences, and learn from one another, fostering a dynamic atmosphere of dialogue and knowledge sharing. The programme was widely appreciated for its informative content, and participants expressed a strong desire for more such initiatives to be conducted in remote tribal areas, highlighting the need for continued awareness and outreach efforts.
The DLSA Ganderbal and TLSC Kangan reaffirmed their commitment to organizing similar awareness programmes across the district, with a focus on extending legal aid to the most vulnerable segments of society.
The event culminated with a vote of thanks to the esteemed dignitaries, resourceful speakers, and engaged participants for their valuable contributions and on a note of collective determination to work towards the empowerment and inclusive development of tribal communities, fostering a more equitable and just society.
This initiative underscores the commitment of DLSA Ganderbal and TLSC Kangan to promoting the welfare and empowerment of tribal communities in the region.
