President Murmu Leads Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, Highlights Tribal Empowerment

In her address, President Murmu underscored the historical and civilizational significance of tribal communities.

President of India Smt Droupadi Murmu graced the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas celebrations organized by the Government of Chhattisgarh on November 20, 2025, at Ambikapur in the Surguja district. The event commemorates the courage, culture and contributions of India's tribal communities, paying homage to their role in shaping the nation's identity and democratic character.

The celebration saw the participation of senior state officials, tribal leaders, youth representatives and thousands of citizens who gathered to honor the legacy of tribal heroes and reaffirm the nation's commitment to tribal development.

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Honouring Tribal Heritage and India's Democratic Roots

In her address, President Murmu underscored the historical and civilizational significance of tribal communities. She highlighted that tribal societies have long upheld democratic values, self-governance and collective decision-making — principles deeply embedded in India's socio-political heritage.

She cited the 'Muria Darbar' of Bastar as a shining example of an indigenous, community-driven governing system, calling it a "primitive people's parliament" that reflects India's ancient democratic ethos. She noted that tribal cultures across Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Jharkhand continue to preserve such traditions, enriching the nation's diverse heritage.

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Celebrating Tribal Pride Fortnight in Chhattisgarh

The President commended the Chhattisgarh Government for organizing the Tribal Pride Fortnight from November 1 to 15. The statewide celebration highlighted:

• Tribal art, culture and traditional crafts

• Community achievements

• Healthcare and education initiatives

• Tribal youth leadership programs

• Awareness drives on government schemes for tribal welfare

President Murmu noted that such initiatives strengthen cultural pride and deepen public engagement with tribal traditions.

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National Programmes Transforming Tribal Development

The President highlighted how the last decade has seen the implementation of several landmark national schemes dedicated to tribal welfare and empowerment. She mentioned:

1. Dharti Aba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan

Launched on Gandhi Jayanti, this initiative aims to transform tribal villages through improved infrastructure, livelihood support and access to essential services. The program is expected to benefit over 50 million tribal citizens across India.

2. Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN)

Launched in 2023, PM-JANMAN focuses on the holistic development of 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). The scheme addresses nutrition, education, health, housing and livelihood creation for some of the most marginalized tribal populations.

These initiatives, President Murmu noted, reflect the priority given to tribal welfare in national policymaking and development planning.

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Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan: A New Force for Grassroots Transformation

The President also highlighted the Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan, launched during the 150th birth anniversary year of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, one of India's most revered tribal freedom fighters. The initiative seeks to empower and mobilize tribal communities through:

• A network of 20 lakh trained volunteers across India

• Capacity-building at the grassroots

• Support for tribal entrepreneurship, education and skill development

• Strengthening of local governance and community institutions

President Murmu expressed confidence that this volunteer network would become an engine of inclusive growth and development in tribal regions.

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Decline of Left Wing Extremism and Rise of Social Participation

Expressing optimism about the future of tribal areas, President Murmu said she was pleased to see people in many states, including Chhattisgarh, moving away from Left Wing Extremism (LWE) and embracing the path of peace and development. She credited this shift to coordinated efforts by the central and state governments.

She highlighted the tremendous participation—over 165,000 participants—in the recent Bastar Olympics, a celebration of traditional tribal sports. Such events, she said, symbolize the growing confidence of tribal youth and their participation in mainstream development.

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Vision for a Strong, Self-Reliant India

The President concluded by urging citizens to continue drawing inspiration from tribal icons who championed bravery, integrity and community service. She expressed confidence that the people of Chhattisgarh, with their rich heritage and dynamic spirit, will make invaluable contributions to building a strong, self-reliant and developed India.