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State Government Invests ₹377.83 Crore in Nilgiris Healthcare, Supports Tribal Communities

SimpliCity News Team · 09 Aug 2024

Coimbatore: State Health Minister Ma. Subramanian announced a substantial investment of ₹377.83 crore for the construction and upgrade of medical facilities in the Nilgiris district. The announcement was made during an event commemorating the International Day of World's Indigenous People, held in the Nilgiris on Friday.

Minister Subramanian detailed that the funds would be used for constructing 32 buildings, including the Medical College and Hospital in Udhagamandalam, government hospitals, and Primary Health Centres across the district. He also highlighted the success of the "Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam" scheme, which has benefited over 5.23 lakh people in the Nilgiris.

State Tourism Minister and Coonoor MLA, K. Ramachandran, spoke about the significance of the International Day of World's Indigenous People, celebrated globally on August 9. He emphasized that the day aims to reinforce the commitment towards ensuring human rights of indigenous communities, protecting the environment, and promoting their social mobility.

Ramachandran provided insights into the tribal landscape of Tamil Nadu, mentioning six indigenous communities - Irulas, Kurumbas, Paniyas, Kattunayakans, Kotas, and Todas. He stated that nearly 34,000 members of these communities reside in the Nilgiris. The government has initiated several supportive measures, including a stipend of ₹50,000 each for 100 traditional medical practitioners from tribal communities selected in 2021.

Further initiatives include funding for tribal schools to establish community gardens and support for artisans to produce furniture from invasive plants like Lantana camara. Ramachandran also mentioned the allocation of ₹2 crore for documenting tribal languages.

In a significant move to uplift tribal communities, the minister announced that the government has earmarked ₹1,000 crore under the "Tholkudi" scheme to improve the standard of living of tribal people. This comprehensive approach demonstrates the government's commitment to both healthcare development and tribal welfare in the Nilgiris region.

healthcare tribal welfare Nilgiris government initiatives indigenous communities

State Government Invests ₹377.83 Crore in Nilgiris Healthcare, Supports Tribal Communities

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