Modis Vision for Tribal Development Celebrated on Birsa Munda Jayanti

Gandhinagar, November 15 (Daily Kiran) : Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel celebrated the 151st birth anniversary of revered tribal leader Birsa Munda in Gandhinagar on November 15. During the state-level ‘Tribal Pride Day’ ceremony held in the tribal-dominated district of Chhotaudepur, Patel paid homage to Munda’s enduring legacy.

He acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts to honor the sacrifices made by tribal heroes during India’s freedom struggle. Patel emphasized that the ‘Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana,’ which began in 2007, has been a significant milestone for tribal advancement. He announced plans for a remarkable investment of ₹2 lakh crore for development projects in tribal areas over the next five years.

Patel expressed pride in Modi’s commitment to the holistic development of tribal regions, noting that those who were once overlooked are now being celebrated. The Chief Minister also outlined the allocation of ₹231 crore for various development initiatives aimed at enhancing the socio-economic conditions of tribal communities.

Highlighting progress in education and healthcare, Patel mentioned that there are now 12 science colleges, 2 universities, 12 medical colleges, and 57 Eklavya Model Residential Schools operating in tribal areas. Additionally, over 22,500 smart classrooms and more than 18,800 forest rights certificates have been issued, empowering tribal youth and families.

Innovative initiatives such as ‘Shabari Booth’ and ‘Johar Cafe’ were launched to boost the livelihoods of tribal women and local artisans. Patel stated that Chhotaudepur will be developed as a ‘Sports and Food Processing Hub,’ creating new employment opportunities for local youth and laying the groundwork for a developed India by 2047.

Nareshbhai Patel, the state’s tribal development minister, remembered Birsa Munda’s historical contributions as a great freedom fighter. He stressed the importance of inspiring the younger generation with Munda’s ideals. Patel expressed gratitude to PM Modi for making November 15 a day to be remembered in history.

In his address, he highlighted the state government’s commitment to the holistic development of over 11 million tribal individuals residing in the region from Umargam to Ambaji. He proudly stated that the government’s initiatives, under Modi’s leadership, align with Munda’s principles.

The ceremony began with the Chief Minister paying floral tributes at Birsa Munda’s statue. He also inaugurated various development projects worth ₹2,283.97 crore for the state’s 14 tribal districts. Alok Kumar Pandey, Secretary of the Tribal Development Department, welcomed attendees.

The development initiatives announced encompass various sectors, including water supply, irrigation, education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. Additionally, forest rights certificates were approved for 18,828 beneficiaries, along with projects valued at ₹1,017 crore. The launch of educational infrastructure projects like ideal residential schools and the Eklavya Model Schools was also part of the day’s agenda.

Participants at the event were able to watch a live broadcast of the national Tribal Pride Day celebrations held in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, where PM Modi delivered a speech.

The gathering included prominent figures such as Lok Sabha MP Jasbhai Rathwa, Rajya Sabha MP Dr. Mukeshbhai Rathwa, and various local officials, alongside a large number of tribal community members who joined in the festivities.