Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday graced the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas celebrations organised by the Chhattisgarh government in Ambikapur, Surguja. Addressing the gathering, she said the contribution of India’s tribal communities forms a proud and unforgettable chapter in the nation’s democratic history.
The President noted that democratic traditions have long existed in tribal societies, citing examples such as the Muria Darbar of Bastar, often referred to as an early people’s parliament. She emphasised that tribal heritage is deeply rooted across regions including Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Jharkhand, and expressed satisfaction that the state marked a fortnight-long celebration of tribal pride from November 1 to 15.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to tribal welfare, President Murmu said that in the past decade several national-level schemes have been launched for the socio-economic upliftment of tribal communities. She recalled the launch of the Dharti Aba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan last year, aimed at benefiting over 50 million tribal citizens. She also referred to the PM-JANMAN Abhiyan, introduced in 2023, which focuses on the holistic development of 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
The President further noted the launch of the Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan, initiated during the 150th birth anniversary year of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, which aims to build a network of nearly 20 lakh volunteers nationwide to strengthen grassroots development initiatives for tribal communities.
Expressing optimism, she said communities across India, including in Chhattisgarh, are increasingly moving away from Left Wing Extremism and embracing development. She added that coordinated efforts by the Centre and state governments will help eradicate extremism in the near future.
President Murmu lauded the participation of more than 1.65 lakh people in the recently held Bastar Olympics and said that by following the legacy of tribal icons, the people of Chhattisgarh will continue contributing to building a strong, self-reliant, and developed India.
