Raipur: Droupadi Murmu, President of India, attended the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas celebration organized by the Government of Chhattisgarh today at Ambikapur, Surguja. The event celebrated the rich heritage, contributions, and achievements of tribal communities in India.
Tribute to Tribal Heritage and Democratic Traditions
In her address, the President highlighted the pivotal role of tribal communities in shaping India’s history and democratic traditions. She referenced ancient tribal republics and traditions, including the ‘Muria Darbar’ in Bastar—a primitive people’s parliament—as examples of the democratic ethos inherent in tribal society.
President Murmu also acknowledged the deep-rooted tribal heritage across Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Jharkhand. She praised the state government for organizing the Tribal Pride Fortnight from November 1st to 15th, celebrating tribal culture on a large scale this year.
Government Initiatives for Tribal Development
The President underlined the importance of national-level schemes launched over the past decade to promote the social and economic development of tribal communities. She highlighted:
- Dharti Aba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (launched on Gandhi Jayanti last year), benefiting over 50 million tribal citizens.
- Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN Abhiyan) launched in 2023, focusing on 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
- Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan, launched during the 150th birth anniversary year of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, creating a network of 20 lakh volunteers to support tribal development at the grassroots level.
These initiatives, she said, reflect the government’s sustained commitment to empowering tribal communities.
Eradicating Extremism and Promoting Participation
President Murmu expressed satisfaction over the gradual decline of Left Wing Extremism in the region, noting that the efforts of central and state governments were bringing more tribal communities into mainstream development. She cited the participation of over 165,000 individuals in the recently held ‘Bastar Olympics’ as a positive step towards social engagement and unity.
Inspiration from Tribal Icons
Concluding her address, the President encouraged the people of Chhattisgarh to follow the ideals of tribal icons to contribute to building a strong, self-reliant, and developed India. She emphasized that the active participation of communities in development initiatives would ensure a prosperous future for tribal populations across the country.
