Daijiworld Media Network - Raipur/Sarguja
Raipur/Sarguja, Nov 20: President Droupadi Murmu underscored that the upliftment of women is essential to building a healthier, better educated, and forward-looking India. “If women move forward, society will automatically move ahead,” she said, urging tribal women to lead in education, health, and community development.
She delivered her address in Sarguja, Chhattisgarh, while inaugurating the three-day Janjatiya Gaurav Divas celebrations, held in honour of Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary. Her speech blended a strong call for women’s empowerment with an emotional reflection on her tribal roots. Speaking before thousands at the Science College ground, the President—herself from the Santhal community—shared how deeply she remains connected to her culture.
President Murmu highlighted the importance of protecting “Jan, Jungle aur Jameen” (people, forests, and land), the core elements of tribal life. She stressed that development must reach remote villages without disturbing the ecological balance or undermining traditional livelihoods. Tribal communities, she noted, have always maintained a harmonious relationship with nature, making their role in environmental preservation indispensable.
During her two-day visit to Raipur, the President also launched the Chief Minister’s Tribal Village Akhra Vikas Yojana, aimed at upgrading traditional community spaces (Akhra) into centres equipped for youth skill development, cultural activities, and sports.
She reaffirmed that the contribution of tribal communities occupies a glorious place in India’s history, and emphasised that tribal welfare remains a national priority. The Centre, she said, continues to implement multiple schemes focused on improving education, livelihoods, and infrastructure in tribal regions.
Several distinguished tribal achievers were honoured at the event, which was presided over by Governor Ramen Deka. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram, and other dignitaries marked their presence. CM Sai called the President’s visit a “moment of immense pride” for Chhattisgarh, given her historic role as India’s first tribal woman President.
Cultural troupes from the Gond, Baiga, Maria, and other tribal communities captivated the audience with traditional performances, celebrating the state’s rich indigenous heritage.
The three-day festival features exhibitions on tribal freedom fighters, handicrafts, traditional medicine, and panel discussions on welfare initiatives. President Murmu’s address reaffirmed the commitment to building a ‘Viksit Bharat’ while honouring and preserving the distinct identity of India’s tribal communities.