Maharashtra Allocates ₹160 Crore for Primitive Tribes in 2026-27 Budget

In a significant move towards the development of marginalized communities, the Maharashtra Government has announced a special allocation of ₹160 crore in the 2026-27 Budget aimed at the holistic development of primitive tribes, including the Katkari, Kolam, and Madia tribes, as well as the Pardhi community. This initiative is part of the broader 'Viksit Maharashtra 2047' vision.

The budget allocation is structured to provide ₹130 crore specifically for primitive tribes and ₹30 crore for the Pardhi community. Of the ₹130 crore, ₹100 crore will be utilized for enhancing basic amenities, while ₹30 crore is set aside for individual and collective benefit schemes. For the Pardhi community, the allocation includes ₹10 crore for basic amenities and ₹20 crore for similar benefit schemes.

The Maharashtra Government issued a Government Resolution on November 2, 2026, to facilitate the implementation of this package. The initiative guarantees a minimum grant of ₹50,000 for individual schemes, with collective schemes eligible for grants up to ₹7.5 lakh, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder beneficiaries from accessing these programs.

Additionally, the funding will support awareness campaigns and special camps aimed at providing essential documentation such as Aadhaar Cards, Voter ID Cards, and Ration Cards. Health initiatives will also be part of the package, including health check-up camps and educational outreach by Anganwadi and ASHA workers. The program aims to enhance health education and facilitate access to government health schemes.

Looking ahead, the Government's focus will also include increasing school attendance and integrating out-of-school children into mainstream education. Plans are underway to organize residential camps in Ashram Schools during the summer for children from migrant families, further emphasizing the commitment to educational development within these communities.