Raipur : President Draupadi Murmu has stressed that the progress of women is essential for building a healthy, educated, and progressive Indian society.
She said, “If women progress, society will automatically progress,” and appealed to tribal women to play a leading role in education, health, and community development.
She was addressing a gathering after inaugurating the three-day state-level Tribal Pride Day celebrations in Surguja, Chhattisgarh, on Thursday. The celebrations, commemorating the birth anniversary of Lord Birsa Munda, carried a strong message of women’s empowerment and preserving tribal identity.
Addressing a large gathering at the Science College Ground, President Murmu, herself a proud daughter of the Santhal tribal community, became emotional while talking about her roots.
“I have always lived my culture, and I still do every day,” she said, drawing thunderous applause from thousands of tribal community members gathered across the state. She placed special emphasis on protecting “people, forests, and land”—the three pillars that define tribal identity.
Emphasizing the deep connection tribal communities have with nature, she appealed for protecting forests and traditional lands and ensuring that development reaches remote villages without disturbing the ecological balance.
Arriving in Raipur on a two-day visit, the President also launched the Chief Minister’s Tribal Village Akhra Vikas Yojana, a special scheme aimed at developing traditional Akhras (community cultural spaces) in tribal villages with modern facilities for youth skill development, sports, and cultural activities.
He stated that the contributions of tribal communities are a glorious chapter in India’s history. He stated that the development of tribal people is a priority for the Government of India. Several national-level schemes have been formulated and implemented for the welfare of tribal communities.
During the program, several prominent tribal figures were honored for their contributions in various fields.
Governor Ramen Deka presided over the event, while Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram, and other dignitaries were present.
Chief Minister Sai described the President’s visit as a “moment of great pride” for Chhattisgarh, especially since she is the first tribal woman to hold the highest constitutional office in the country.
Cultural groups from the Gond, Baiga, Maria, and other tribes presented impressive performances showcasing Chhattisgarh’s rich indigenous heritage.
The three-day celebration will feature exhibitions on tribal freedom fighters, traditional crafts, medicinal herbs, and discussions on welfare schemes. President Murmu’s speech reinforced the national commitment to tribal upliftment under the vision of a “developed India,” while also preserving the unique identity and traditions of tribal communities.
