Pangi forum seeks inclusion of Buddhist villages under PM Jan Vikas Karyakram

Pangwal Ekta Manch, a local organisation from the tribal Pangi valley in Chamba, has strongly urged the Union and state governments to include five Buddhist-majority villages under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK).

The organisation has expressed concern over the continued exclusion of these villages, despite them being 100 per cent minority-populated as per the 2011 Census.

In a letter written to the Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, the manch welcomed the recent foundation stone-laying of projects under PMJVK in Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti by him on June 27 and 28. However, it questioned why Pangi, classified as an Aspirational District, was left out despite its eligibility.

“These villages are not only remote but also severely underdeveloped in terms of education, economic empowerment and basic infrastructure,” said Trilok Thakur, chairman of the manch. “It is unfortunate that our region continues to be neglected under the pretext of technicalities, despite fulfilling all parameters under the revised PMJVK guidelines,” he added.

The five major Buddhist community inhabited villages are Sural Bhatori, Hudan Bhatori, Parmar Bhatori, Hillu-Tuan Bhatori and Chasak Bhatori. These villages collectively comprise multiple sub-villages and are home to a significant Buddhist population, yet have remained excluded from the benefits of the scheme.

Pangwal Ekta Manch appeals to the state government to immediately recommend the inclusion of these 100 per cent minority-concentrated villages under PMJVK. We seek the authorities to act promptly and ensure justice and inclusion for our minority communities,” added Thakur.

The Pangi valley, located in the northwestern corner of the state, is one of the most remote and difficult-to-access regions in the state. Surrounded by high mountain ranges and connected to the rest of the state only through narrow, treacherous roads and high passes such as Sach Pass, the valley remains cut off for several months during winter. The region is predominantly inhabited by tribal communities, including Pangwals and Bhots (Buddhists), who live in harsh climatic conditions and lack access to many basic amenities. Development activities in the region are limited due to its topography, making government schemes like PMJVK crucial for its progress.

Himachal Tribune