Thrust has been given to education in the Integrated Tribal Development Programme (ITDP) in the district.
According to Aruna Giri, project officer, ITDP, this year's programme throughout the State lays stress on the education of tribal children. As part of this, hostel facilities will be strengthened to accommodate more tribal students.
Apart from economic backwardness, a major reason for high dropout rate among tribal students was the lack of hostel facilities, he said.
Mr. Giri said that an amount of Rs.2 crore had been earmarked this year for building about 150 houses for tribals. The first phase of construction, with the advance given, was almost over. However, in some areas construction was delayed owing to the difficulty in arranging construction materials, as most of the tribal settlements were in remote places.
Funds would be distributed in accordance with the completion of work in each phase, he said.
For improving the living conditions of tribal people, dairy sector would be strengthened. Cattles would be distributed to them. Through the Food Support Scheme, ration would be distributed.
The beneficiaries for the schemes would be selected by ‘Orrukoottam' (tribal leaders' council) and would be approved by the panchayat council.
Thattekannu in Adimaly village and Pollavayal in Kanthallur would be given Special Central Assistance for overall development.
A special package for Edamalakkudy tribal grama panchayat had been submitted to the government. The support of various departments, including forest, agriculture and health, was necessary to improve the living conditions there, he said.
