Mumbai, August 31: Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde stated on Monday that de-notified and nomadic communities require not sympathy, but their constitutional rights, respect, and justice. He emphasized the state government’s commitment to ensuring these communities live stable and worry-free lives. A nationwide movement will be launched to unite 52 nomadic and de-notified tribes.
Speaking at the Shiv Sena’s Rights, Justice, and Development Conference for De-Notified and Nomadic Tribes (DNT) 2026, Deputy CM Shinde recalled the historical context of the event. He noted that during British rule, hardworking communities were unjustly labeled as ‘criminal tribes’ under the Criminal Tribes Act.
He highlighted that on August 31, 1952, this community was finally freed from that stigma, marking this day as a historical milestone of freedom, self-respect, and struggle. Shinde asserted that this demand is not for favors, but for fundamental rights and dignity.
Acknowledging the ongoing administrative challenges faced by the community in obtaining essential documents like caste certificates, voter IDs, ration cards, and official identification, as well as access to housing, healthcare, education, and employment, Shinde promised the government’s full support in addressing these issues.
He stressed that the identity of ‘De-Notified Tribes’ should not be limited to struggle but should also advance in education, entrepreneurship, leadership, and holistic development. He expressed his desire to see the youth from these communities become doctors, lawyers, engineers, and business leaders.
Shinde mentioned special government initiatives for youth, including free coaching for competitive exams, scholarships, health insurance, financial assistance for self-employment, skill development programs, and startup support.
He also pledged to enhance the schemes and capabilities under the ‘Vasantrao Naik De-Notified and Nomadic Tribe Development Corporation.’ To promote and preserve the traditional arts, crafts, and cultural heritage of nomadic tribes, Shinde announced that the state government will organize a large cultural conference to provide artists with a significant platform and economic incentives. He praised the historical contributions of this community to the rural economy.
Recalling B.R. Ambedkar’s message to “Educate, Agitate, Organize,” Shinde urged the 52 communities to maintain unity. He remarked that while individual fingers point in different directions, when they come together as a fist, they possess tremendous strength.
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