Gambharia: President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu inaugurated a national seminar on ‘Tribes of Keonjhar: People, Culture, and Heritage’ organized by Dharanidhar University at Gambharia, Keonjhar, today. The President also unveiled an exhibition featuring tribal costumes, jewelry, and food items as part of the celebration.
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu highlighted the cultural richness of Keonjhar, a tribal-dominated district adorned with natural beauty. Home to diverse tribes such as Munda, Kolh, Bhuiyan, Juang, Saanti, Bathudi, Gond, Santhal, Orang, and Kondh, Keonjhar holds a unique place in India’s cultural tapestry. The President expressed confidence that the discussions among researchers during the seminar would lead to concrete conclusions regarding the preservation of tribal culture.
President Murmu emphasized the importance of inclusive development, stating that any community or group left out of the country’s mainstream development cannot be considered inclusive. Special attention, she noted, must be given to the development of more backward sections in tribal communities. She highlighted the PM-JANMAN initiative launched by the Government of India to empower Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), offering support in livelihood, skill development, education, health, housing, water, sanitation, and nutrition.
Acknowledging efforts to preserve and promote tribal arts, cultures, and crafts, the President lauded initiatives aimed at protecting tribal self-respect. She highlighted the democratic values and equality practiced by tribal societies, emphasizing the ‘We’ over ‘I’ mentality as the basis of their social structure.
Directing her words towards educators, President Murmu encouraged teachers to engage in research alongside teaching. She urged them to visit tribal villages, understand the conditions of the villagers, and tap into the wealth of traditional knowledge present in these societies. The President stressed the need for research on the identification and utilization of trees, plants, and herbs, especially their medicinal properties. She called for an effort to apply traditional knowledge for the benefit of human society and prevent its extinction.
President Murmu addressed students, emphasizing their vast potential and the opportunities for self-reliance through education and skills. While encouraging them to embrace new technologies, she urged them not to forget their roots, emphasizing the importance of staying connected to traditional values and knowledge. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to the preservation of tribal heritage and the promotion of inclusive development in Keonjhar and beyond.