Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati has stressed that the empowerment of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) is essential to achieve the vision of Viksit Odisha and Viksit Bharat. Speaking at the conclave titled “Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) of Odisha – Way Ahead” at Lok Bhavan in Bhubaneswar, he said the progress of the most marginalised communities is both a social responsibility and a national priority.
The governor emphasized that Odisha has the most PVTGs (13) of any Indian state. He said development efforts should focus on education, healthcare, livelihoods, housing, and infrastructure while also protecting tribal languages, traditions, and cultural identity.
Kambhampati praised the achievement of Champa Raspeda from the Didayi community in Malkangiri, who became the first girl from her community to qualify NEET and secure admission to Fakir Mohan Medical College and Hospital, Balasore. He described her success as an inspiring example of how education can transform lives and encouraged greater support for tribal youth.
The Governor also appreciated the efforts of the Central and Odisha governments in expanding access to education, healthcare, connectivity, social security, and livelihood opportunities for PVTGs. He called for wider awareness of welfare schemes, including PM-JANMAN and the Jal Jeevan Mission, so that eligible beneficiaries can fully access government support.
During the programme, Kambhampati released a technical report on the socio-cultural, demographic, nutrition, and health status of Odisha’s PVTGs. He also praised the Tribal Cell of Lok Bhavan for publishing the Tribal Photo Essay Book Series. The conclave brought together PVTG beneficiaries, researchers, NGOs, university representatives, and government officials to discuss future policy measures for the sustainable development of tribal communities.