Chairing a high-level review meeting on tribal welfare in New Delhi on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for the development of strategies to stop the spread of left wing extremism.

Modi described the tribal communities of India as a great force for national development.

He said the Ministry of Tribal Affairs has a key role to play in this regard. The Prime Minister said various ministries and wings of the government should work in coordination to achieve this goal.

The PM asked the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to identify growth centres within tribal areas, and ensure proper development of education, health and sports facilities in the country.

The Prime Minister said one of the key objectives should be to work towards “technology penetration” – for instance, electricity and mobile phone reach in the tribal areas.

Another important objective should be to link relatively undeveloped tribal areas with developed areas through good infrastructure.

Speaking of the cultural aspects of tribal life, and their vast repository of ancient knowledge, the Prime Minister urged the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to work towards digital documentation of the same.

Modi asked officials to work towards organizing a Tribal Cultural Troupe Carnival, on the lines of the Republic Day Parade.

He has also called for exploring the possibility of online marketing of products produced by tribals through e-commerce platforms.

On health aspects, the Prime Minister stressed the need for mapping of sickle cell anemia among the tribal population, on a scientific basis.

The Prime Minister has also called for concerned departments to explore the possibility of a cure for this disease through stem cell therapy.

The Prime Minister instructed the NITI Aayog to involve relevant research institutions, and eminent experts in all aspects of planning for tribal areas.

Minister for Tribal Affairs, Jual Oram, and senior officials were present on the occasion.