President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday highlighted the pivotal role of tribal communities in preserving India’s cultural heritage and advancing inclusive national development, stressing that tribal identity, education and social justice must remain central to the country’s progress.
Addressing the Inter-State Tribal Cultural Confluence and Kartik Jatra programme in Gumla, Jharkhand, the President described herself as a “daughter of the tribal community” and said she felt a deep sense of belonging among the people.
Recalling her tenure as Governor of Jharkhand, she said it had given her an opportunity to closely understand and serve tribal society.
The President said the forests, rivers, hills and plateaus of the Jharkhand–Chhattisgarh–Odisha region have been custodians of some of the country’s most ancient traditions. She noted that such cultural gatherings strengthen unity between tribal and non-tribal communities while keeping living traditions vibrant.
Paying tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, President Murmu described him as a lasting symbol of social justice and tribal pride for the entire nation. She also remembered Padma Shri Pankhraj Saheb Kartik Oraon, saying his life and work reinforced tribal consciousness, education and social harmony.
Emphasising education as the foundation of individual and societal development, she said expanding educational opportunities among tribal communities was key to inclusive growth.
Highlighting government initiatives, the President said Eklavya Model Residential Schools are providing quality education to tribal children, enabling them to contribute to nation-building.
She referred to flagship programmes such as the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan and PM-JANMAN, aimed at holistic development of tribal regions, and noted that 41 ministries are working under the Tribal Sub-Plan for tribal welfare.
Stressing the need to preserve heritage alongside development, President Murmu said tribal youth must stay connected to their cultural roots while moving forward in the modern world.
She expressed pride that over the past 11 years, more than 100 individuals from tribal communities have been honoured with Padma awards, reflecting growing national recognition of tribal excellence.
Concluding her address, the President said her continued engagement with tribal communities was guided by the constitutional goals of inclusive development and social justice, and expressed confidence that tribal societies would progress by harmonising tradition with modern growth.
Also read: Prez Murmu celebrates Santhali heritage at Ol Chiki centenary
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