Gumla (Jharkhand)
President Droupadi Murmu on Monday emphasised the urgent need to connect youth and future generations with tribal traditions while enabling them to move confidently on the path of modern development.
Addressing the Antarrajyiy Jansanskritik Samagam Samaroh – Kartik Jatra in Gumla, she said preserving tribal heritage and identity is essential for the nation’s cultural and social strength.
The President said that while safeguarding traditions, customs and cultural identity, tribal youth must also advance rapidly in education, skills and innovation. Expressing confidence in tribal communities, she said they will continue to progress while preserving their rich heritage.
Murmu described her visit to Jharkhand — the birthplace and workplace of Bhagwan Birsa Munda — as a pilgrimage, calling him a great symbol of social justice and tribal pride. She said Birsa Munda’s life and ideals continue to inspire the nation and remain central to the identity and self-respect of tribal communities.
Paying tribute to Pankhraj Saheb Kartik Oraon, the President said he strengthened tribal consciousness and identity in line with the ideals of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. Born and raised in Gumla, Kartik Oraon dedicated his life to the upliftment of tribal society and the nation. She noted that his work focused on spreading education, strengthening social unity and promoting self-confidence among tribal communities.
Murmu said that although Kartik Oraon passed away decades ago, his ideals and contributions remain a lasting legacy for the country. She urged people to resolve to work for the overall development of society and the nation by following his path.
Highlighting the role of education, the President said education shapes personality, creates opportunities, and serves as a powerful medium for inclusive development and social justice. She stressed that strengthening education among tribal communities is crucial for empowering future generations.
Referring to the region’s rich legacy, Murmu said Gumla and surrounding areas have produced several outstanding tribal heroes. She mentioned Jatra Tana Bhagat, a prominent social reformer and freedom fighter who led movements inspired by Gandhian principles, and Veer Albert Ekka, who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation and was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his bravery in the 1971 war.
The President said the government is making continuous efforts to familiarise people across the country with the heroic stories of tribal leaders through initiatives such as the establishment of tribal museums. However, she underlined that it is also the responsibility of every individual and institution associated with tribal heritage to ensure that the contributions of tribal heroes from all regions are passed on to the youth and future generations.
Murmu also spoke about the growing recognition of tribal art and culture, noting that traditional crafts and handloom products are gaining popularity and global appreciation. She said society must actively support and promote these art forms so that traditional skills become sources of pride and livelihood.
Highlighting achievements from tribal communities, the President said that over the past 11 years, more than a hundred individuals from tribal backgrounds have been honoured with prestigious national awards, many of which she personally conferred, reflecting the nation’s respect for tribal talent and contribution.
On welfare initiatives, Murmu referred to major government efforts aimed at tribal development, including the Dharati Aba Tribal Gram Utkrishta Abhiyan and the PM Janman Yojana. She said various ministries and departments are working in coordination to ensure holistic development, infrastructure growth, education, healthcare and livelihood opportunities for tribal communities.
Concluding her address, the President reiterated that India’s progress is deeply linked to the progress of its tribal communities. She said preserving heritage, strengthening identity and empowering youth together will ensure that tribal society continues to move forward with dignity, confidence and pride.
Antarrajyiy Jansanskritik Samagam Samaroh – Kartik Jatra
- Held annually in Gumla, Jharkhand, it is a major inter-state cultural gathering that brings together tribal communities from Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Odisha. The event commemorates the legacy of Pankhraj Saheb Kartik Oraon, a noted tribal leader, social reformer and former Union Minister, and provides a platform to celebrate tribal traditions, language, folk culture and collective identity.
- Besides President Droupadi Murmu, key among those others who attended the event were Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh Governors Raman Deka and Santosh Gangwar..
- The event carries strong social and political significance as it reinforces tribal unity, honours the contributions of tribal icons and promotes the role of education, social reform and cultural preservation in tribal society. Politically, it reflects the growing national focus on recognising tribal heritage and leadership, while strengthening engagement between constitutional authorities, elected governments and tribal communities across eastern and central India.
