New Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday in his monthly radio address, his 97th, cited how many people shared their feelings about People’s Padma to those who have achieved through their dedication and service at the grassroots level.
“This time there has been a good representation of the tribal community and people associated with tribal life among the Padma awardees. Tribal life is different from the hustle and bustle of the cities; its challenges are also different. Despite this, tribal societies are always ready to preserve their traditions. Efforts are also made to preserve and research aspects related to tribal communities,” the PM said in his Mann Ki Baat radio programme.
“Similarly, many great personalities who have worked on tribal languages like Toto, Ho, Kui, Kuvi and Manda have received Padma Awards. It is a matter of pride for all of us. Dhani Ram Toto, Janum Singh Soy and B. Ramakrishna Reddy ji…the whole country has become familiar with them now.
“People working with tribals like Siddhi, Jarawa and Onge have also been honoured this time such as Hirabai Lobi, Ratan Chandra Kar and Ishwar Chandra Verma Ji. Tribal communities have been an integral part of our land, our heritage. Their contribution in the development of the country and society is very important. Honouring the personalities who worked for them, will also inspire the new generation.
“This year the echoes of the Padma Awards are being heard even in those areas which used to be Naxal affected. Due to their efforts, those who show the right path to the misguided youth in Naxalite affected areas have been honoured with Padma awards. For this, Ajay Kumar Mandavi, who does wood carving in Kanker, and Parshuram Komaji Khune, associated with the famous Jharipatti Rangbhoomi of Gadchiroli, have also received this honour. Similarly, Ramkuiwangbe Niume, Bikram Bahadur Jamatia and Karma Wangchu, who are involved in the preservation of their culture in the North-East, have also been honoured,” the PM pointed out in his Mann Ki Baat programme.
Tribals are at the centrestage of the Modi government’s scheme of things and also that of States ruled by opposition dispensations. More so, since as many 13 States will have Assembly elections leading to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls in the next year and a half. Put together, 404 Assembly seats are reserved for Scheduled Tribes in the 13 States scheduled to go to polls while 47 Lok Sabha seats are reserved for the community.
