The Union Minister of State for Education, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, over the weekend, witnessed glimpses of the celebrations of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas in Kolkata.
Union Minister of State for Education and Development of the North Eastern Region, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar today joined the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas celebrations at Raj Bhavan here. Since 2020, the Ministry of Education has been commemorating India’s tribal heritage with this event that falls on the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda this time. Mrs. Archana Sharma Awasthi, Joint Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy accompanied the Minister in the event.

To mark the function, the members of the audience were witness to a telecast of the inspiring speech delivered by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister greeted the unparalleled contribution of tribal leaders for the struggle for India’s freedom and continued their role in the growth of the nation. He outlined through his speech the commitment of the Government of India toward the empowerment of tribal communities as well as towards inclusive growth.

Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas: A very important day to acknowledge the life and sacrifices of a noble tribal leader and freedom fighter, Bhagwan Birsa Munda, who played an important role in India’s fight against colonial oppression.

In the course of this programme, Dr Majumdar interacted with local members of the tribal community and heard their empowerment stories. A few narrated how schemes undertaken by the Government of India had transformed their lives through education and healthcare opportunities and sustainable livelihood chances. The Minister commented on their grit and determination saying that all credit to such progress should go to grassroots development initiatives.

In his statement, Dr. Majumdar made it clear that the initiatives are in accordance with the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047, which targets an inclusive growth-driven developed India. The Minister said, “Empowering our tribal communities is not merely a promise but the foundation upon which a stronger and united India will prosper. Their rich culture and social contributions are precious assets to our country.”

Focus on Education and Development

Mrs. Archana Sharma Awasthi, Joint Secretary spoke on tribal education under the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020. According to her, the government is going all out to establish schools and skill development centers in remote tribal areas in a bid to bridge lacunae in education and economy.

It encompasses cultural performances by tribal artists, which highlight and celebrate their unique traditions while celebrating rich diversity in India’s tribal heritage. The celebrations concluded with a pledge to continue supporting tribal communities and fostering inclusive development through collaborative efforts between the government and society.

Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas this year became an occasion to celebrate the reiteration of the government’s dedication to the uplifting of tribal populations and securing active participation towards the construction of a prosperous and inclusive India.