On Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister honours the tribal freedom fighter and highlights state initiatives for tribal welfare, education and economic empowerment.
November 15 marks Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, commemorating the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the tribal freedom fighter and pioneer of the Ulgulan movement.
Describing him as an ideology rather than merely a historical figure, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav said his struggle for tribal rights continues to inspire generations across the country.
Birsa Munda’s Legacy of Resistance
In a special message on the occasion, Yadav paid tribute to tribal freedom fighters and highlighted their contribution to India’s freedom struggle.
He said the day represents self-respect, courage and patriotism. Recalling Birsa Munda’s resistance against British oppression and exploitation, he emphasised his fight to protect tribal rights over water, forests and land.
Focus on Tribal Welfare in Madhya Pradesh
Highlighting Madhya Pradesh’s tribal heritage, Yadav said the state has the largest tribal population in the country.
He stressed that the state’s overall development would remain incomplete without the social and economic empowerment of tribal communities.
He highlighted the implementation of the PESA Act, which empowers Gram Sabhas to manage local resources and take decisions concerning water, forests and land.
The government is also expanding Eklavya Model Residential Schools to improve access to quality education in tribal areas.
Education, Healthcare and Economic Empowerment
The Chief Minister also highlighted health screening campaigns targeting sickle cell anaemia, under which lakhs of tribal people have reportedly received screening and treatment.
He cited the Bhagwan Birsa Munda Self-Employment Scheme and Tantya Mama Economic Welfare Scheme as initiatives supporting tribal youth through financial assistance and training.
Yadav further mentioned memorials and museums dedicated to tribal icons, including Tantya Bhil, Bhima Nayak, Raja Shankar Shah, Kunwar Raghunath Shah and Rani Durgavati.
Concluding his message, the Chief Minister called upon citizens to protect tribal culture, heritage and rights, reaffirming the government’s commitment to building a prosperous, self-reliant and empowered tribal society.