Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the NDA government’s commitment to tribal welfare during a Tribal Pride Day event on Friday in Ballapur, Khaira block, Jamui district, Bihar. Celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Lord Birsa Munda, the Prime Minister spoke about education, healthcare, and income for tribal communities, while lamenting the historical neglect of their contributions to India’s freedom struggle.
Traditional Welcome and Notable Attendees
PM Modi received a warm welcome with traditional tribal dance performances. He joined the celebrations by playing the Jhaal and Nagada. Sharing the stage were Bihar Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Sinha, and descendants of Birsa Munda and Sidhu Kanhu.
#WATCH | Jamui, Bihar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says “…Our government has also taken many steps to preserve tribal heritage. Many people dedicated to tribal art and culture have been honoured with Padma Awards. We started a huge museum in the name of Lord Birsa Munda in… pic.twitter.com/4hfFIaevpu
— ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2024
Foundation Stone for Development Projects
The Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation for multiple development projects worth over ₹6,600 crore, focusing on improving infrastructure and uplifting tribal communities in rural and remote areas.
Also Read: PM Modi Shares Memorable Selfie With Irula Couple At Tribal Exhibition
He congratulated citizens, especially tribal communities, on National Tribal Pride Day, noting that over one crore people from across India participated in the event virtually.
Addressing Historical Injustice
PM Modi highlighted the injustice faced by tribal communities, stating that history failed to give them due recognition. He credited tribal societies for shaping India’s cultural and historical identity, saying, “The tribals made Prince Ram, Lord Ram.”
#WATCH | Jamui, Bihar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed by locals in a traditional way. PM also tried his hands on a traditional dhol.
PM Modi unveiled a commemorative coin and postal stamp in honour of Bhagwan Birsa Munda today. He also inaugurated and laid the foundation… pic.twitter.com/tnkQF2uXVr
— ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2024
He condemned the erasure of their contributions due to selfish politics, asserting that movements like Birsa Munda’s Ulgulan, the Santhal rebellion, and the Bhil warriors’ efforts must be remembered.
Celebrating Tribal Contributions
The Prime Minister praised tribal leaders and revolutions, asserting that their efforts were vital to India’s independence and cultural preservation. He lauded the NDA government for electing Draupadi Murmu as the President, a move he said reflected respect for tribal contributions.
PM-Janman Yojana and Other Welfare Programs
PM Modi underscored the success of the PM-Janman Yojana, which is transforming lives in tribal areas by providing housing, electricity, and roads. He noted that previous governments ignored these communities but affirmed his government’s dedication to their development.
Preserving Tribal Heritage
Highlighting efforts to preserve tribal heritage, PM Modi cited the establishment of museums, research centers, and the awarding of Padma honors to tribal leaders. He emphasized government initiatives to offer engineering, medical, and technology courses in regional languages, empowering tribal youth to achieve their dreams.
Commemorative Coin and Stamp Unveiled
In honor of Birsa Munda, PM Modi unveiled a commemorative coin and postage stamp. He also virtually participated in the ‘Griha Pravesh’ ceremony for 11,000 homes built under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyay Maha Abhiyan (PM-Janman).
#WATCH | Jamui, Bihar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says “…It was the NDA government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee that created a separate ministry for tribal welfare. 10 years ago, the budget for the development of tribal areas and tribal families was less than Rs 25,000 crores.… pic.twitter.com/6TtIvQWDcR
— ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2024
Healthcare Access Boosted
The Prime Minister launched 23 Mobile Medical Units (MMUs) under PM-Janman and an additional 30 MMUs under Dharti Aaba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA) to improve healthcare access in remote tribal areas.
Second Visit to Bihar in Three Days
This visit marked PM Modi’s second trip to Bihar within three days. On November 13, he visited Darbhanga to lay the foundation stone of an AIIMS hospital and inaugurate other projects.
The event underscored the government’s dedication to empowering tribal communities and preserving their legacy as integral to India’s progress.
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