President Murmu Pays Tribute to Birsa Munda, Wishes Jharkhand Progress on Foundation Day

Photo: IANS

New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday paid tribute to tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda on his birth anniversary and extended greetings to the people of Jharkhand on the state's Foundation Day, expressing confidence that they would lead the state towards greater development and prosperity.

Jharkhand celebrates its Foundation Day every year on November 15, commemorating its formation as India's 28th state in 2000 after being carved out of southern Bihar under the Bihar Reorganisation Act, 2000. The day also marks the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, which is observed across the country as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.

In a message posted on X, President Murmu extended greetings to citizens on Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, describing the occasion as an opportunity to remember India's rich tribal heritage and the historic contributions of tribal communities to nation-building.

She urged people to preserve the country's invaluable cultural heritage while continuing to pursue the goal of inclusive development.

In a separate message marking Jharkhand's Foundation Day, the President highlighted the state's distinctive identity, shaped by its tribal traditions, vibrant folk culture and abundant natural and mineral resources.

Referring to tribal icons Birsa Munda and Sidho-Kanhu, she said the land associated with such great personalities had a unique cultural and historical legacy. She expressed hope that Jharkhand's hardworking and talented people would draw strength from their heritage and take the state to new heights of development and prosperity.

President Murmu shares a special association with Jharkhand, having served as its Governor from 2015 to 2021. She was the state's first woman Governor and also its longest-serving Governor.

She is also the first person from a tribal community to hold the office of President of India, making her association with the country's tribal heritage particularly significant on the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.