Tribals mustn't be isolated in name of protecting their cultural identity: Vice Prez

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu Tuesday said tribals must not be isolated from the national mainstream in the name of protecting their cultural identity.

Tribal youths should have voice and opportunity to express their aspirations and expectations, and only then the commitment for 'Sabka saath sabka Vikas' will be fulfilled, he said.

In this context, the vice president also referred to several steps taken by the government for financial inclusion.These include JanDhan, MUDRA, and Stand up India.

"In the name of protecting their (tribals) cultural identity, we must not isolate them from the national mainstream," he said.

The vice president was delivering the Foundation Day Lecture 'Constitution and Tribes' on the occasion of the 15th Foundation Day Celebrations of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes.

Tribal groups can give lessons in sustainable development at a time when the world is looking for one, Naidu said.

He noted that every tribe has a rich and living cultural tradition