The minister’s visit centred on long-pending concerns over ownership rights of Katkari families residing on Plot No. 538A within municipal limits
Pic/Special Arrangement
Maharashtra Tribal Development Minister Ashok Uike on Wednesday visited a Katkari settlement in the Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) area, where he assessed ground realities and reviewed the implementation of government welfare schemes for tribal communities.
Focus on land ownership issues
The minister’s visit centred on long-pending concerns over ownership rights of Katkari families residing on Plot No. 538A within municipal limits. Accompanied by Panvel Mayor Nitin Patil and senior officials, Uike inspected the settlement and sought detailed inputs from the Revenue Department and civic authorities regarding the status of the land.
During an interaction held at a local community hall, members of the Katkari community highlighted issues related to housing, basic amenities and legal ownership. The minister assured that their concerns would be examined and addressed through appropriate administrative measures.
Review meeting at civic headquarters
Following the field visit, a review meeting was convened at the PMC headquarters, attended by officials from the Tribal Development Department, Revenue Department and municipal administration. Discussions primarily focused on resolving land ownership claims and ensuring better coordination between departments.
Mayor Nitin Patil stated that the municipal corporation would take a “positive decision” on the issue of land rights after due consideration.
Housing proposals and welfare outreach
Municipal Commissioner Mangesh Chitale informed that the civic body has submitted 116 proposals under the Shabari Housing Scheme to the Tribal Development Department. These proposals aim to provide housing support to eligible tribal families.
He added that the administration is working towards ensuring that all eligible beneficiaries receive the benefits of various government schemes within the next three months.
Coverage of tribal settlements
Officials said the review covered nearly 1,680 tribal families residing across 20 settlements within the Panvel municipal area. The discussion also included the status of key welfare initiatives such as the PM Janman Yojana and the Rani Durgavati Scheme in urban tribal pockets.
Directions for inclusive implementation
Uike directed officials to ensure that tribal communities in urban areas are not overlooked in policy implementation. He emphasised the need for a sensitive approach in addressing their concerns and called for timely delivery of scheme benefits.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Mayor Pramila Patil, Leader of the House Prakash Binedar, Opposition Leader Arvind Mhatre, Sub-Divisional Officer Pawan Chandak, Additional Commissioners Ganesh Shete and Maheshkumar Meghmale, Project Officer Tejaswini Galande, along with officials from various departments and local representatives.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
