Meeting Explores Stronger Collaboration with Ministry of Tribal Affairs for Tribal Development and Sustainable Livelihoods
New Delhi: Shri Aji Krishnan, Founder-Secretary of HRDS INDIA, met Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Shri Jual Oram at the Ministry of Tribal Affairs in New Delhi. He submitted a detailed report on the organisation’s humanitarian initiatives linked to Operation Sindoor.
The report included photographs and documentation of HRDS INDIA’s relief and reconstruction work. It highlighted efforts to rebuild homes and support vulnerable and tribal families in Jammu & Kashmir and other affected areas.
Three Decades of Grassroots Development
During the meeting, HRDS INDIA’s broader contributions to tribal development, rural reconstruction and disaster relief were also discussed. For more than three decades, the organisation has been working across Kerala, Jharkhand, Assam, Tripura and other states in areas such as housing, education, healthcare, skill development and livelihood promotion.
As part of its reconstruction initiatives, HRDS INDIA has helped rebuild thousands of damaged houses in Jammu & Kashmir and extended support to families affected by floods and other crises, including initiatives associated with Operation Sindoor.
Union Minister Jual Oram appreciated the organisation’s grassroots efforts and its contribution towards tribal welfare. He highlighted the important role of civil society organisations in complementing government efforts in housing, tribal welfare and community development, and expressed support for continued cooperation with HRDS INDIA.
Presenting the report, Aji Krishnan said the organisation remains committed to serving vulnerable communities and enabling their long-term development.
Nation-Building Through Tribal Empowerment
“HRDS INDIA believes true nation-building begins with securing the homes and futures of vulnerable communities, especially tribal families. Operation Sindoor’s humanitarian efforts have allowed us to support families facing adversity. Our aim is to provide not only shelter but also hope and self-reliance,” he said.
The meeting also explored ways to strengthen cooperation between HRDS INDIA and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Discussions focused on basic amenities in tribal settlements, indigenous knowledge and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
HRDS INDIA continues to work in tribal-dominated and remote areas. Its programmes focus on quality housing, women’s empowerment, education and natural-resource-based livelihoods, including the Sadhgraha initiative.
