Pernem: Members of the Dhangar community from Pernem on Sunday called for continued efforts to secure inclusion in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category at an awareness meeting held at Dhangarwada, Torxem, in Pernem.
Speakers discussed the history of the community’s demand and said they would continue their efforts until the demand for ST status was recognised.
“ST status is important for the community’s educational and employment opportunities and for access to social justice and welfare provisions,” said community leaders. They said the classification would provide students with increased educational opportunities and youth with better employment prospects through various government schemes.
The meeting was organised by the Pernem taluka unit of the Gomantak Dhangar Samajonnati Mandal and was attended by community leaders, youth, women and elderly residents.
Women who participated in the meeting said ST status was important for the prosperity of future generations. Organisers called on community members to set aside personal differences and work together on the demand.
The meeting concluded with community members taking an oath to remain organised in pursuing their demand. The Mandal said it planned to hold a series of awareness meetings across different parts of Pernem taluka to mobilise community members and continue its efforts for ST status.
The meeting was chaired by Mandal president Balu Shinde. Vice-president and Torse panchayat member Ramesh Gangaram Bute was also present.
