Gumla Deputy Commissioner Reviews SC/ST Protection, Eklavya Schools and Hostel Facilities

Four important review meetings were held under the chairmanship of Gumla Deputy Commissioner Dileshwar Mahto at the conference hall of the new Collectorate building in Chandali to assess the implementation of various schemes and initiatives under the District Welfare Department.

The meetings focused on four major areas: implementation of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989; functioning of Eklavya Model Residential Schools; supply of traditional musical instruments to tribal cultural and art centres, Dhumkuria buildings and Manjhi Houses; and arrangements and security at welfare department-run hostels.

Officials review SC/ST Atrocities Act cases

During the meeting of the District-Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee, officials reviewed the implementation of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.

The progress of cases received from the office of the Superintendent of Police was examined, with particular emphasis on ensuring that victims receive relief and legal assistance without unnecessary delay.

The review was aimed at strengthening coordination among the departments involved in handling such cases and ensuring that eligible victims receive the assistance provided under the law.

Eklavya schools to get focus on staffing

The administration also reviewed the functioning and infrastructure of newly constructed Eklavya Model Residential Schools in the district.

Officials discussed the availability of teachers and other staff so that academic activities can begin smoothly. The District Welfare Officer was directed to initiate the required process and publish advertisements at the earliest for the appointment of teachers on guest or contractual basis, as permitted under the rules.

Traditional instruments for tribal cultural centres

Another meeting focused on a scheme for providing traditional musical instruments to tribal cultural and art centres, Dhumkuria buildings and Manjhi Houses.

Under the approved departmental provisions, the committee will determine the specifications of each musical instrument, its maximum permissible cost and the number of instruments to be supplied to each centre or facility.

The move is aimed at supporting the preservation and promotion of traditional tribal culture and art through better access to indigenous musical instruments.

Hostel nutrition and security arrangements reviewed

The administration also reviewed the implementation of the Hostel Nutrition Scheme, 2024, as amended, in hostels run by the Welfare Department for students belonging to Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, Backward Classes and minority communities.

The security and overall management of the hostels were also discussed. A committee has been constituted with the Additional Collector, Gumla, as its chairperson. The District Welfare Officer, concerned Sub-Divisional Officer, Sub-Divisional Police Officer, Block Welfare Officer and Officer-in-Charge of the concerned police station will serve as members.

The Project Director, ITDA, Gumla, will function as the patron of the committee.

Deputy Commissioner stresses timely implementation

Deputy Commissioner Dileshwar Mahto directed the concerned officials to ensure timely completion of all tasks, effective coordination between departments and implementation of schemes strictly according to prescribed guidelines.

He said ensuring that the benefits of welfare schemes and related facilities reach eligible beneficiaries and students effectively remains a key priority of the district administration.

Deputy Development Commissioner Animesh Ranjan, Sub-Divisional Officer Rajiv Neeraj, the District Welfare Officer and officials from the concerned departments and members of the respective committees attended the meetings.