The Development and Welfare Board for De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Communities (DWBDNC), under the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, organised ‘SAMAVESH UTSAV’ at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in National Capital today.

More than 700 beneficiaries from De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic (DNT) communities including community leaders and artisans from across the country, participated in the programme.

The event celebrated the inclusion, empowerment and progress of DNT communities by showcasing success stories under the Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNTs (SEED). It also highlighted the traditional skills, craftsmanship and products of DNT artisans, along with various initiatives undertaken by the Government for the welfare of these communities.

Addressing the gathering, Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar shared experiences from his interactions with DNT communities across the country. He appreciated the positive impact of the SEED Scheme in transforming their lives, particularly through interventions in education, healthcare, livelihood and housing.

The Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Shri B. L. Verma, senior representatives of the Ministry and DWBDNC including CEO Board Shri Rajan Sehgal, Members Shri Bharatbhai Babubhai Patni and Shri Pravin Shivajirao Ghuge, also graced the occasion.

Shri B. L. Verma highlighted the role of the SEED Scheme in improving the socio-economic conditions of DNT communities. He reiterated the Government’s continued commitment to their holistic welfare, empowerment and inclusion.

 

A major attraction of SAMAVESH UTSAV was an exhibition showcasing the traditional skills and products of DNT artisans. Twenty stalls featured artisans from Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Delhi, representing communities such as Banjara, Chamar, Nat, Sutar, Vadar, Lohar, Gadiya Lohar, Waghri and Naik.

The products displayed at the exhibition included handmade godhadis, jute bags, traditional jhulas, hand embroidery, blue pottery, iron products, appliqué and block-print work, pickles, spices and fruit jams. The exhibition offered visitors a glimpse into the rich craft heritage, creativity and entrepreneurial potential of DNT communities.

The Government constituted the DWBDNC through a notification dated 21st February 2019 to implement welfare and development programmes for De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic communities. The SEED Scheme was subsequently launched to supplement efforts aimed at their holistic welfare and socio-economic empowerment.

*****

PR-94 TAR/KV/GA/RK

(Release ID: 2305590) Visitor Counter : 219