Srinagar, Nov 12 (KNS): The Tribal Affairs Department has initiated measures for modernisation of hostels in various districts aimed at providing best facilities to the students. Department has also initiated the process for enhancement of diet rates. Allocation of funds for completion of ongoing Hostel projects and improvements in facilities of existing hostels is aimed at providing standard accommodation to tribal students and also offering required educational facilities.

Secretary, Tribal Affairs Department Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary informed that steps have been initiated for completion of ongoing Hostel projects, sanction of new hostels and modernisation of existing hostels including furniture, furnishing, infrastructure upgradation and educational facilities.

Govt also released an amount of Rs 15.00 Cr for utilisation on current financial year which includes Rs 30.00 Lakh each for 26 hostels to be provided furniture and furnishing while more than Rs 8.00 Cr provided for completion of hostels in Basantgarh, Kulgam, Shopian, Bani, Kalakote and Koteranka. More than 5 hostels are also being completed this month at an estimated cost of 16.00 Cr.

Dr Shahid informed that under the directions of Lieutenant Governor J&K the department of tribal affairs received highest ever funds for hostels modernisation and completion the efforts for which are being personally monitored by Advisor (Tribal Affairs) Farooq Khan. He expressed gratitude to Chief Secretary Dr A K Mehta and Addl Chief Secretary Finance Atal Dullu for special funding to complete the hostels stuck since many years and grants for up gradation of facilities.

Further, in a meeting chaired by Addl Chief Secretary the diet rates for hostel students were also decided to be enhanced by 50% which is first enhancement since last 13 years and provision has been kept for ensuring regular enhancement depending on market rates of commodities and national nutritional norms.

Department has also culminated the process for selection of new wardens and assistant wardens. More than 35 wardens and assistant wardens are being posted this month for management of hostels. Up gradation of facilities including smart class rooms, library, gymnasium, pantry, sports infrastructure and extracurricular facilities shall be top priority among the assignments on which performance of wardens will be monitored. Skill development courses have also been finalised to be introduced for students in all the hostels of tribal affairs department. (KNS)