Education key to tribal and regional development: Prez Murmu in Gumla

Gumla- President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday urged the tribal community, particularly the youth, to stay firmly connected to their cultural roots while also adopting modern education, science, and technology for comprehensive development.

Addressing the inter-state socio-cultural event ‘Kartik Jatra’ at Raidih block in Jharkhand’s Gumla district, the President underlined that preserving tribal identity and traditions is crucial even as society advances.

“Education is the greatest asset for development. The holistic progress of society and the state is possible only through the expansion and spread of education,” she said.

Paying tribute to eminent tribal leader Pankhraj Saheb Kartik Oraon, a native of Gumla, President Murmu described him as a great source of inspiration. She said that despite receiving education abroad, Kartik Oraon dedicated his entire life to his land and people, considering education the most powerful means of social transformation. She added that the Kartik Jatra continues to reflect this very spirit.

The President noted that Kartik Oraon’s long-cherished dream of establishing a university in Gumla would soon be fulfilled.

Highlighting the geographical and cultural importance of the region connecting Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha, she said the area is rich in rivers, forests, plateaus, and mountains, and has preserved some of the country’s most ancient traditions.

Describing her visit to Jharkhand as a pilgrimage, President Murmu said it is the birthplace and karmabhoomi of Lord Birsa Munda, who is revered across the nation as a symbol of tribal pride and social justice.

She also recalled freedom fighter and social reformer Jatra Tana Bhagat, born in Gumla, who led a non-violent movement against British rule inspired by Mahatma Gandhi.

Remembering Param Vir Chakra awardee Shaheed Albert Ekka, the President said his exceptional bravery during the 1971 India-Pakistan war continues to be a source of national pride.

President Murmu praised the vibrant cultural heritage of the tribal community, noting that its music, dance, drama, and art traditions are extremely rich. She said this cultural wealth is reflected in the fact that more than 100 tribal artistes from across the country have been honoured with the Padma Shri.

The programme featured colourful performances by tribal dance troupes from various states, creating a festive atmosphere. A large gathering attended the event held at Pankhraj Saheb Kartik Oraon Chowk Barrier Bagicha, Manjhatoli in Gumla.

The event was attended by Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on SC/ST Affairs Faggan Singh Kulaste, Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar, and other dignitaries.

With inputs from IANS