Bengal Government Extends Monthly Pension Scheme for Over 3 Lakh Tribal People Under 'Jai Johar' Initiative

KalimNews, Kolkata, August 10, 2025 : On the occasion of World Indigenous Peoples Day, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee shared a significant update regarding the state government’s ongoing efforts towards the welfare of tribal communities in West Bengal. Over 3 lakh tribal people have been enrolled in the "Jai Johar" pension scheme, providing them with a monthly financial aid of ₹1,000. The initiative is part of a broader commitment by the state government to improve the lives of tribal communities across the state.

In her message to tribal communities on X (formerly Twitter), Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee conveyed her warm wishes and highlighted the government's key achievements in tribal development over the last 14 years. She emphasized the creation of a separate Tribal Development Department dedicated to addressing the specific needs of tribal populations. The department has implemented several significant policies aimed at safeguarding tribal rights, language, and culture.

Mamata also pointed out that under the current administration, 11 tribal languages—including Santhali, Kurukh, Kurmali, Nepali, Hindi, Urdu, Rajbanshi, Kamtapuri, Oriya, Punjabi, and Telugu—have been granted official language status. She underscored the government's commitment to preserving the Sadri language and enhancing its status.

This year, the celebrations of World Indigenous Peoples Day, held from August 7 to August 10, have served as an occasion for the state to reaffirm its dedication to the welfare of its indigenous population. In her message, Mamata reiterated the government's respect for all languages and cultures, sharing that a bill has been passed in the state assembly for the official recognition of the Sarana/Sari religion, with a formal letter sent to the central government seeking their acknowledgment as well.

Additionally, the Chief Minister highlighted significant strides made in tribal land rights and protection, citing the new law that protects tribal land transfers. Notably, the state has distributed nearly 19 lakh acres of land to Scheduled Tribes (STs). The budget for the Tribal Development Department has increased more than sevenfold since 2011, demonstrating the state's growing commitment to tribal development.

Under the Forest Rights Act, approximately 49,000 tribal families have received forest land pattas (title deeds), and 851 community forest pattas have been issued to empower local communities. Additionally, a special social security scheme has been launched for nearly 36,000 impoverished tribal families engaged in the collection of kendu leaves.

To further support tribal culture and education, the state has established eight development boards for various tribal groups, along with a Santhali Academy to preserve and promote the Santhali language and culture.

In a gesture of respect for the tribal community's rich cultural heritage, the government has declared official holidays on the birth anniversaries of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and Pandit Raghunath Murmu, as well as on Hul Diwas and Karam Puja.

Mamata concluded her message by reaffirming her government’s resolve to continue working for the upliftment of tribal brothers and sisters in the future. "We will continue to work for their development and ensure that their rights are protected," she said, sending a message of solidarity and hope to the state's indigenous people.

The state government's proactive measures and policies reflect a growing commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society for tribal communities in West Bengal.