Kaptipada: A host of schemes implemented by the government to push socio-economic development of tribals seem to have been ineffective for the people of a village in JS Jamudiha panchayat under this block in Mayurbhanj district, a report said.
Even 70 years after Independence, the condition of the villagers of Uthanisahi belonging to the Mankidia tribal community has not changed amid allegations of development funds being misappropriated.
The 25 families of the village are still miles away from the mainstream of the society and are stuck to their traditional way of living based on forests. Some NGOs are also working for them, but their condition has not changed.
Their thatched shanties amid outcrops and tattered clothes speak volumes of their plight.
The Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) is working to ensure their development, but its funds are allegedly being misappropriated.
It was learnt the villagers are not aware of their entitlements. Though the media has reported irregularities in their projects several times in the past, the department has allegedly looked the other way.
Housing projects have been taken up for them, but contractors, taking advantage of the tribals’ innocence, botch up the construction to mint money. Many houses have been left abandoned.
Years ago, ITDA had undertaken the project of a colony for rehabilitation of the Mandkidias. These houses are in dilapidated condition while some of them are on the verge of collapse.
Some elderly men said they have spent their lifetime waiting for welfare schemes due to the administrative apathy.
A road was laid to the village, but it remains in bad shape. Besides, in the absence of electricity, the villagers have been reeling in darkness.
Moreover, safe drinking water is still a dream for the residents, who depend on creeks and streams for their water needs. A few days ago, an NGO installed a solar powered system to load water in an overhead tank.
“In cloudy and rainy weather, the solar powered system does not work and we do not get water,” said Padan Mankidia, a villager.
After repeated complaints, landless people were provided land pattas and work orders were issued for housing units under the Indira Aawas Yojana.
Since many houses are lying incomplete, the villagers have to adjust themselves under thatched houses, braving the chilly weather.
Panchayat executive officer Shyamsundar Majhi said a road will be laid and a pond will be dug in the village soon. Those waiting for houses will be provided IAY units, he added.
The officer, who held the contractors responsible for the delay in housing work, said, “They (contractor) are not listening to us.” PNN
