Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, the Congress national general secretary and Wayanad MP, undertook a significant visit on Wednesday, journeying deep into the Nilambur forest to meet with the Cholanaikar tribal communities who reside in remote cave dwellings.
Accompanied by a small group of Congress leaders and officials, Ms. Vadra fearlessly navigated the arduous forest landscape. She received invaluable assistance from tribal women, who guided her across treacherous, rocky paths.
Her journey took her to the secluded settlements of Manjeeri, Panappuzha, and Kannikkai, where she spent time listening intently to the indigenous communities whose homes are nestled many kilometers within the dense forest.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra demonstrated her commitment by crossing a hanging bridge during her visit to a Cholanaikar tribal settlement deep within the Nilambur forests. (Photo Credit: SAKEER HUSSAIN)
During her visit, Ms. Vadra also made a point to meet Vinod, a bright tribal youth who is currently pursuing his doctoral studies.
Later, at Nedunkayam, she chaired a meeting with officials, focusing on the critical challenges and issues confronting the local tribal population.
A tribal youth extends a helping hand to Priyanka Gandhi Vadra as she navigates a rocky descent. (Photo Credit: SAKEER HUSSAIN)
Key figures accompanying Ms. Vadra on this important outreach included MLAs Aryadan Shoukath and A.P. Anil Kumar, DCC president V.S. Joy, Nilambur South Divisional Forest Officer G. Dhanik Lal, and Karulai Range Forest Officer Mujeeb Rahman.