The government will construct six shelter sheds at the cost of Rs 40 lakh at Pir-ki-Gali on Mughal Road and in Ramban for nomadic communities.This was stated by the Minister for Animal and Sheep Husbandry Abdul Gani Kohli, while chairing an officers meeting of the Tribal Affairs Department convened to review the measures put in place by the government for the development of the tribal population of the State.The Minister said the matter regarding construction of sheds has already been discussed with the Vice-Chairman, Gujjar and Bakerwal Advisory Board in a meeting earlier and the necessary funds are being released accordingly.Mr. Kohli said construction of such sheds for nomads was the necessity as they not only face tremendous hardships while moving from one place to another but there always a threat to their livestock due to heavy downpour on the higher reaches while moving to Kashmir Valley in summers. He said a large section of the nomadic population moves from Pir Panchal range to different places in Kashmir via Mughal Road and Ramban-Banihal route.
The Minister said the government is committed for the development and welfare of Gujjar and Bakerwal community adding that all the developmental initiatives will be taken without disturbing their culture and lifestyle.Kohli said taking into consideration the pathetic condition of the tribal communities including the nomads, Government has already created an independent Ministry with necessary powers and budgetary support for the welfare of the community.The Directorate of Tribal Affairs has been empowered to give focussed attention on the problems and affairs of the community in a planned and systematic way. He said the Government would further strengthen the Tribal Affairs Department for speedy development of Schedule Tribe and other communities coming in the ambit of the Department.The Minister said that the government also reviews the implementation of Tribal Affairs Plans from time to time and takes appropriate measures to address their concerns and needs.