"Bhagwan Birsa Munda is pride of India's tribal communities": Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal

Dibrugarh (Assam) [India], November 15 (ANI): Calling the Bhagwan Birsa Munda the "pride of India's tribal communities," Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Friday said that his life and legacy continue to inspire strength, unity, and resilience.

"Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the heroic revolutionary and pride of India's tribal communities, symbolises self-respect, sacrifice, and courage. His life and legacy continue to inspire strength, unity, and resilience. On his birth anniversary, we honour his role in uniting tribal societies against British colonial rule, embodying the spirit of self-reliance and inclusive growth for generations. To commemorate the great sacrifice made by the tribal communities for the cause of nation-building, the whole country has joined to celebrate Janajatiya Gaurav Divas on this pious day," Sonowal said.

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways joined the PM Narendra Modi from the playground of Dinjoye Tea Estate in Chabua. The PM virtually inaugurated, and laid foundation stones and dedicated projects worth Rs 6,900 crores for the welfare of tribal people of India.

The event also witnessed a cultural performance by dance troupes from Mising, Sonowal Kachari, Mechkachari, Moran, Matak, and Tea tribe communities adding colour and vibrancy to the celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas here.

Sarbananda Sonowal further said that this day holds great significance for India as we celebrate the rich heritage and invaluable contributions of tribal communities to nation-building.

"Since 2014, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, millions of tribal people have benefited from welfare initiatives, addressing long-standing demands and fostering dignity and honour for all. The legacy of Birsa Munda, marked by patriotism, sacrifice, and courage, remains an enduring source of inspiration. Guided by this history of resilience and commitment, I am determined to work toward an inclusive, self-reliant, and prosperous India," he said.

Highlighting the key role the Modi government is playing in empowering the tribal communities of the country, Sonowal in a significant effort for tribal welfare, Prime Minister Modi initiated the 'Dharti Aaba Tribal Village Excellence Campaign', focusing on delivering essential amenities to remote tribal areas.

"Key achievements include the allocation of Rs 79,156 crore to improve infrastructure and services for over 5.338 crore tribal individuals across 63,843 villages in 30 states and Union Territories. Under the campaign, tribal communities have benefited from initiatives such as constructing 20 lakh homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural), electrifying 35 lakh houses, promoting off-grid solar energy solutions, and installing solar power systems. Healthcare has also been prioritised, with 1,000 mobile medical units deployed under the National Health Mission. Additionally, various agricultural and welfare projects have been implemented, alongside the development of 1,000 tribal homes under the Swadesh Darshan scheme. These efforts symbolise a holistic approach to improving the quality of life and empowering tribal populations," Sonowal said.

"Under the BJP-led NDA government's effective governance, significant progress has been made in tribal welfare. Achievements include the construction of 29,462 tribal villages under the Water Supply Department, 11,539 villages benefiting from Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, and 1,000 hostels built under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan. Additionally, 5,000 villages have been connected through Telecom Technology Development Capital, and 1,000 skill centres for tribal youth have been established," he added.

He further said that these initiatives have brought transformative changes, addressing the longstanding neglect of tribal communities under previous administrations.

"Prime Minister Modi's leadership has restored respect and dignity to the tribal population, empowering them to thrive," he said.

The Union Minister was joined by the Ministers of the Government of Assam, namely, Jogen Mohan, Bimal Borah, and Sanjoy Kishan along with the MP (Rajya Sabha), Rameswar Teli and MLAs, namely, Prashanta Phukan, Ponakan Baruah, Chakradhar Gogoi, Terash Gowalla, Binod Hazarika and other prominent individuals.

The event was organised by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs with support from Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways as well as the Dibrugarh District Administration, Government of Assam.

During the event, Sarbananda Sonowal ceremonially distributed Bhumi Patta and Ayushman Health Insurance Cards to many tribal beneficiaries. The celebration featured vibrant participation from various ethnic tribal communities, showcasing their rich arts and cultural heritage.

Bhagwan Birsa Munda, who led the Ulgulan (Revolution) against British rule, became a symbol of resistance. Bhagwan Munda's leadership inspired a national awakening, and his legacy is deeply revered by tribal communities. (ANI)