Unsung Heroes: The Santals' Unwavering Spirit

President Droupadi Murmu highlights the Santal community's contributions to India's freedom struggle, lamenting their under-acknowledged history. Speaking at the International Santal Conference, she discussed influential figures like Tilka Majhi and Sido-Kanhu, and advocated for balancing tradition with modern development to empower Santal and tribal youth.

President Droupadi Murmu addressed the International Santal Conference in West Bengal, emphasizing the lack of recognition for the Santal community's role in India's freedom struggle. She pointed out that figures like Tilka Majhi and Sido-Kanhu, pivotal in historical revolts, remain largely excluded from historical accounts.

Murmu highlighted challenges the Santals face, such as slow regional development and opposition to their progress. She noted efforts to advance the Santali language and culture, like the inclusion of Santali in the Constitution's Eighth Schedule and the development of the Ol Chiki script by Pandit Raghunath Murmu.

The President urged Santals to maintain their cultural roots while embracing modern development. She stressed the importance of education, skill development, and cultural preservation to empower tribal communities, fostering a harmonious balance between progress and tradition.

(With inputs from agencies.)