Mumbai, Aug 31 (IANS) Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday said that denotified and nomadic communities do not need sympathy but their constitutional rights, dignity and justice.
He asserted that the state government is committed to ensuring these communities lead a stable, worry‑free life. He announced that a nationwide movement will be launched by uniting 52 nomadic and denotified tribes.
Speaking at the Shiv Sena Nomadic and Denotified Tribes (DNT) Rights, Justice, and Development Convention 2026, DCM Shinde recalled the historic background of the observance, pointing out that the British regime had unjustly branded these working‑class communities as “born criminals” under the Criminal Tribes Act.
“On August 31, 1952, the community was finally freed from this stigma. Hence, this day marks a historic milestone of freedom, self‑respect and struggle,” he said, adding that the demand was not for favour but for fundamental rights and dignity.
Acknowledging persistent administrative challenges faced by the community regarding basic documentation, such as caste certificates, voter IDs, ration cards and official identity proofs, as well as access to housing, healthcare, education and employment, Shinde pledged the government’s full support to resolve these issues.
He emphasised that the identity of denotified tribes must evolve beyond struggle into fields of education, entrepreneurship, leadership and overall progress, expressing his vision to see youth from these backgrounds become doctors, lawyers, engineers and business leaders.
Highlighting key government initiatives tailored for the youth, Shinde mentioned free competitive exam coaching, educational scholarships, health insurance, financial assistance for self‑employment, skill development programmes and startup support.
He further committed to enhancing the capacity and schemes under the Vasantrao Naik Vimukta Jati and Nomadic Tribes Development Corporation.
To celebrate and preserve the traditional art, handicrafts and cultural heritage of nomadic tribes, Shinde announced that the state will host a large‑scale cultural conclave to provide artists with a prominent platform and financial encouragement. He also lauded the community’s historical contributions to the rural economy.
Invoking B.R. Ambedkar’s message, “Educate, Agitate, Organise”, Shinde urged the 52 communities to maintain unified strength.
“Individual fingers point in different directions, but when clenched into a fist, they create formidable strength,” he said.
Encouraging the youth to become “change‑makers,” Shinde stressed that the goal of the convention was not merely a show of strength but to bring about tangible transformation on the ground.
Reaffirming the continuation of welfare schemes like the Ladki Bahin Yojana, he assured that the development of farmers, workers and underprivileged sections remains the government’s utmost priority.
“Eknath Shinde stands by his word,” he concluded, assuring the gathering of his unwavering support in their battle for rights, respect and advancement.
–IANS
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