“Bhagwan Birsa Munda gave a new direction to the struggle for tribal pride and rights”: Governor Shri Deka “Preserving the legacy of tribal heroes is our government’s top priority”: Chief Minister Shri Sai Tribal Gaurav Diwas celebrated in Ambikapur Raipur, 20 November 2025 President Smt. Droupadi Murmu addressed the Tribal Gaurav Diwas program organized in Ambikapur and said that the Government of India’s initiatives such as the Adi Karmyogi Abhiyan, Dhartii Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, and PM-Janman Abhiyan are crucial steps for the upliftment of tribal communities. These schemes, she said, are creating new opportunities for education, livelihood, health, and development for crores of tribal families across the nation. The President said that India is the mother of democracy, and this democratic spirit can be seen even in tribal traditions such as Bastar’s “Muria Darbar,” the people’s parliament of indigenous communities. She emphasized that the tribal heritage of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha is rich and interconnected. She informed the gathering that during her tenure, the “Janajatiya Darpan” Museum has been established at Rashtrapati Bhavan, giving special place to tribal art and culture. She praised the Chhattisgarh Government and Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai for celebrating Tribal Gaurav Fortnight, establishing museums dedicated to tribal freedom fighters, and ensuring effective implementation of government schemes. She also congratulated the Chief Minister and his team for the national award received by the state’s Tribal Development Department at the national “Adi Karmyogi” Conference in Delhi. Governor Shri Ramen Deka’s Address Governor Shri Deka said that Tribal Gaurav Diwas is a day to remember tribal identity, cultural heritage, and the valiant ancestors who shaped glorious chapters of tribal history. Honoring the presence of the President, he said her inspirational journey—from a humble tribal family to the highest constitutional office of the nation—is an example for all of India. Remembering the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the Governor recalled several inspiring incidents from his life. He said Birsa Munda led courageous movements against alcoholism, injustice, and blind faith. The historic “Ulgulan” revolt under his leadership challenged British rule and gave new direction to the struggle for tribal pride and rights. He also remembered heroes such as Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh, Raja Gend Singh, Kangla Manjhi, Veer Seetaram Kanwar, and Gundadhur, calling their contributions immortal in the history of Chhattisgarh. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai’s Address The Chief Minister said it is an honor for Chhattisgarh that the President graced the program despite her busy schedule. Mentioning her recent interaction with families affected by Naxal violence, he said she met them with warmth and compassion. He highlighted the rich history of Chhattisgarh and the invaluable contribution of its tribal communities to India’s freedom struggle. He recalled Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s presence during the state’s Silver Jubilee celebrations on November 1, where he inaugurated a museum dedicated to tribal freedom fighters. The Chief Minister said that the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Memorial-cum-Museum, inaugurated by the Prime Minister, is India’s first tribal museum featuring digital storytelling of tribal uprisings. He added that today the President honored family members of tribal freedom fighters and chiefs of tribes and sub-tribes—an occasion of great pride for the state. Key Development Initiatives Highlighted: Under PM-Janman Yojana, rapid development is underway in 2,365 tribal habitations across 53 development blocks. Under Dhartii Aaba Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, development benefits have reached 6,691 villages in 32 districts. Tendu leaf collection rate increased from ₹4,000 to ₹5,500 per standard bag — highest in the country. Charan Paduka Yojana restarted for tribal forest gatherers. Naxalism now in its “final phase,” with complete elimination targeted by March 2026. Rehabilitation policies encouraging many former extremists to join the mainstream. Niyad Nella Naar Yojana expanding basic facilities in remote tribal areas. Union Minister of State Shri Durgadas Uikey’s Address He said that Bhagwan Birsa Munda is not just a hero of Jharkhand or the tribal community, but a symbol of pride, dignity, and social justice for the entire nation. A warrior, reformer, and spiritual leader, he taught his people self-respect and unity. He said that during the Amrit Kaal of independence, tribal heroes across India are being properly recognized, their birthplaces preserved, and tribal places of worship restored. Tribal Development Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam’s Address He said that this grand event is a continuation of the nationwide celebration of Tribal Gaurav Diwas held on November 15, the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. Inspired by the Prime Minister, this celebration is now an annual tradition that keeps tribal pride alive and guides future generations. Dance Troupes Felicitated President Smt. Murmu awarded: Lingo Gotul Mandari Nacha Party, Kondagaon – First place in Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Lok Kala Mahotsav Jai Mata Di Karma Dance Party, Kansabel – First place in North Chhattisgarh Tribal Folk Art Festival (Karam Mahotsav) The Chief Minister gifted a memento depicting the courage of Bhagwan Birsa Munda to the President, and the Governor presented a souvenir showcasing mural art. Dignitaries present included Finance Minister Shri Omprakash Choudhary, Tourism Minister Shri Rajesh Agrawal, Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap, Health Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Women & Child Development Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade, MP Shri Chintamani Maharaj, MLAs Shri Purandar Mishra and Shri Kiran Singh Deo, and Ambikapur Mayor Smt. Manjusha Bhagat. Post navigation President attends the ‘Janajatiya Gaurav Diwas’ celebration in Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh Brilliant IAS Couple Of MP Cadre Mr Rishav & Mrs Bhavya Honoured With National Award By President of India.