Belagavi : Public Works minister Satish Jarkiholi on Tuesday urged members of the Valmiki community to make effective use of govt welfare schemes and strive for economic, social and educational progress.
Movements launched to secure community rights, including access to caste certificates, had brought visible changes over the last 30 to 40 years, he said.
Speaking after inaugurating the district-level Valmiki convention at Kumar Gandharva Rangamandir, Jarkiholi said sustained efforts over the past several decades had helped improve education and social awareness among people in Belagavi, Khanapur and border areas. The minister said community members must be aware of their rights, understand where these rights are denied and seek legal remedies when necessary. Jarkiholi stressed that progress in politics, government service, private employment and entrepreneurship requires consistent effort over many years. He noted that more youths from the community were pursuing higher education, securing jobs and becoming self-reliant through business ventures. He credited community leaders for strengthening organisations and creating opportunities. Awareness of welfare schemes and constitutional safeguards would help secure greater representation in administration and improve employment and business prospects, he added. The convention was presided over by Vasantrao Chouhan. MLA Asif Sait, youth leader Rahul Jarkiholi and several community leaders were present.