"I have assured the state government of extending all kind of support for the development of tribals including primitive tribal groups and strengthening of panchayati raj institutions," Deo told reporters after the meeting.

Stating that ensuring tribal rights was the objective of his Ministry, Deo said he would like to assist the state government's activities for the welfare of tribal population.

Replying to a question, Deo said he would take up the matter related to the announcement of minimum support price (MSP) for minor forest produce with the Centre.

Patnaik claimed that the state government had achieved a lot in implementing the provisions of the Forest Rights Act (FRA). About three lakh tribal families had been allotted forest land under the FRA, Patnaik said at the meeting.

The chief minister urged Deo to ensure that tribal students get study loans easily for higher education.

"We have also demanded sanction for opening of more residential schools for the tribal children, training centres for unemployed youths," a senior government official said.