Need efficient public service delivery: CS

The gap between tribals and non-tribals has remained either the same or widened in many areas.

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE

Development projects such as mining and industrial development have benefited the country, but have often failed to deliver tangible benefits to the tribals, said Justice A K Patnaik, former judge of the Supreme Court here on Monday.

Delivering the Foundation Day lecture of CYSD titled Tribal Development in India: Focus on Odisha, he said tribals in India have long been the stewards of their land and forests. However, during British colonial rule, they were subjected to a legal and administrative structure that was alien to their way of life, leading to large-scale displacement and loss of their land to non-tribals.

Justice Patnaik delved into the challenges that tribals face due to the policies that often prioritise revenue generation over the welfare.