KATHUA: Districts across Jammu division buzzed with activities as the tribal communities celebrated their distinguished culture and traditions to mark Janjatiya Gourav Diwas.
At Kathua
District administration Kathua organised a vivid programme in the Conference Hall of the DC Office complex to commemorate the day. The live transmission of National Level celebrations of Janjatiya Gourav Diwas led by the Prime Minister was also screened at the event.
DDC Chairman Col (Retd) Mahan Singh, Vice Chairman DDC Raghunandan Singh, ADC Kathua Ranjit Singh, PO ICDS Shokat Mahmood, CPO Ranjit Thakur and other district & sectoral officers were present.
The event unfolded with the highlighting of achievements made with regard to the tribal welfare in the district during the current financial year followed by a Pledge taking ceremony on Social Justice and Drug Free India administered by Chairman DDC besides reading of Preamble by ADC.
The speakers, besides throwing light on the life of great tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda in India’s freedom struggle, also highlighted the cause of the tribal. The DDC Chairman said the commemoration of Janjatiya Gourav Diwas is dedicated to appreciate the valued contributions made by the Tribal community in varied fields.
Later, the DDC Chairman and Vice Chairman also gave away financial assistance to the members of tribal communities under different beneficiary oriented schemes.
At Doda
In a grand celebration honoring the tribal freedom fighters and the rich heritage of tribal communities, Janjatiya Gaurav Divas 2024 was observed at the Community Hall Doda, under the aegis of Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan. The event commemorated the 150th birth anniversary of the esteemed tribal leader Bhagwan Birsa Munda, a pivotal figure in India's freedom struggle and an advocate for the rights of tribal communities.
The program witnessed the presence of DDC Chairman Dhananter Singh Kotwal, DDC Vice Chairperson Sangita Rani, PO ICDS, ADC, DDC members, and senior officers, along with a large gathering of tribal community members, students, and citizens.
A series of vibrant cultural performances showcased the rich traditions of tribal communities, leaving the audience mesmerized. Awareness campaigns were organized to inform the public about various government schemes aimed at empowering and uplifting tribal communities. A captivating Nukkad Natak (street play) emphasized the values of unity and self-reliance, while interactive stalls displayed tribal art, crafts, and information about welfare initiatives.
DDC Chairman Dhananter Singh Kotwal and Vice Chairperson Sangita Rani delivered inspiring speeches, paying homage to Bhagwan Birsa Munda and highlighting the invaluable contributions of tribal communities to India’s cultural and historical legacy. They reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the welfare, education, and socio-economic development of tribal populations. Sports items were distributed among girls under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative to encourage youth participation in sports, while certificates were awarded to distinguished individuals.
At Samba
District Samba commemorated the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, the iconic tribal leader and freedom fighter, through a series of vibrant events held under the aegis of 'Dharti Abha Jyanjatia Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan.' The celebrations highlighted Birsa Munda’s contributions to India’s tribal communities and underscored the district’s commitment to tribal welfare. The event drew enthusiastic participation from tribal community members, children, and district officers, including the Deputy Commissioner, Additional Deputy Commissioner, District Program Officer, Chief Medical Officer, and other prominent district officials.
In addition to the main celebration at the District Conference Hall, Special Gram Sabha events were organized in the tribal villages of Rakh Barotian and Bari. Here, representatives from various line departments collaborated with prominent local community members to provide essential services and support, ensuring the saturation of welfare schemes in these communities.
Young student Kausar Parveen delivered an insightful speech on the life and contributions of Birsa Munda, captivating the audience and inspiring pride in the legacy of this national hero.
Yassir’s performance of a traditional folk song in Gogri brought a vibrant cultural element to the event, highlighting the rich heritage of the tribal community. Attendees joined a live-streamed address by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who honored Birsa Munda’s legacy and highlighted ongoing government initiatives for tribal welfare and upliftment.
At Rajouri
Janjatiya Gaurav Divas was celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm in District Rajouri under the supervision and guidance of Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma. The event was marked by the active participation of dignitaries, public representatives, and a large number of residents.
The event was graced by DDC Chairperson Advocate Naseem Liaqat, DDC Member Darhal Iqbal Malik, and DDC Member Rajouri Sain Abdul Rashid, who joined the celebrations to honor the rich legacy of tribal culture and history.
A huge gathering of over 1,000 people attended the event, which featured a live address by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A documentary highlighting the rich tribal culture and traditions was released, providing the audience with valuable insights into the heritage of the tribal communities.
Adding to the cultural vibrancy, students from Gujjar and Bakerwal Hostels presented a captivating cultural program that reflected the essence of tribal traditions and customs.
Stalls set up by various departments showcased government schemes tailored to the welfare of tribal communities. These included informative displays and products highlighting opportunities available to the tribal population. Additionally, a model of a tribal homestay was exhibited, showcasing sustainable tourism initiatives rooted in tribal culture.
As part of the event, several beneficiaries were recognized and supported under various government schemes. Advocate Naseem Liaqat, DDC Chairperson, handed over keys to beneficiaries under the Mumkin Scheme. Provisional sanction letters under PMAY were also distributed to eligible families, and gas connection to the beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana.
The District Administration also felicitated eminent personalities from the tribal communities who have made significant contributions as social workers, academicians, and achievers in various fields. This gesture aimed to recognize and encourage excellence within the community.
At Ramban
The District Administration Ramban, under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary, today launched the 10-day-long ‘Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan’ to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of the legendary freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda. The event, celebrated as Rashtriya Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, aimed to honor the tribal heritage and contributions to the nation's history.
The event was presided over by Chairperson District Development Council (DDC) Ramban, Dr. Shamshad Shan, while MLA Ramban, Arjun Singh Raju, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour. DDC Member Shamim Akther, prominent citizens, ADDC Roshan Lal, CPO Shakeeb Ahmed Rather, ACD Shrinath Suman, ACP Ashfaq Ahmed, and various senior officers from various departments also participated in the grand function.
Speaking at the launch, the Chairperson emphasized the significance of Rashtriya Janjatiya Gaurav Divas in recognizing the contributions of tribal communities to preserving cultural heritage, fostering bravery, and instilling national pride. She highlighted that the celebration, to be held annually on Bhagwan Birsa Munda Ji's birth anniversary, is a tribute to his legacy.
The MLA Ramban, lauded the contributions of Bhagwan Birsa Munda Ji and reiterated the government’s commitment to uplifting tribal communities. The event also included interactions with tribal community representatives, who raised pertinent issues and highlighted the need for enhanced focus on their welfare.
As part of the celebration, various government departments set up stalls to showcase their products and sensitized attendees about government schemes aimed at empowering tribal communities.
To encourage and honor the achievements of the tribal youth, the administration felicitated 10 young achievers for their exceptional performance in competitive exams such as IIT, NEET, and NIIT, as well as in other fields, showcasing the immense potential and talent within the tribal community.
The ‘Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan’, spanning ten days, will continue to celebrate tribal history and heritage across the district, promoting awareness and setting the path for discussion and formulation of tribal plan enabling community to uplift their socio-economic and political status as a whole.
Similar program was also held today at Village Chaknarwah of Tehsil Banihal and in Tehsil Khari Khari targeting tribal populace by creating awareness regarding various government schemes as part of massive IEC activities. At Banihal Program was presided by SDM Banihal Rizwan Asgar and attended by Tehsildar Banihal Imtiaz Ahmed and other sectoral officers of the sub division.
At Reasi
The District Administration Reasi celebrated Janjatiya Gaurav Divas with great fervor at the Auditorium of the DC Office Complex, bringing together a large gathering of tribal communities from across the district. The event was graced by the Deputy Commissioner of Reasi as the Chief Guest, who underscored the administration's unwavering commitment to ensuring inclusive growth and empowering tribal communities. In his address, the Deputy Commissioner remarked, “Such programs reflect our resolve that no one is left behind. Tribals are an integral part of our cultural fabric and deserve recognition and support.”
The celebrations were marked by vibrant cultural performances that showcased the district's rich diversity and heritage. The audience was captivated by traditional Gojri dances and skits, along with Dogri performances, emphasizing the unity in diversity of Reasi's cultural ethos. These performances highlighted the invaluable contributions of tribal communities to the region's cultural legacy and inspired pride among attendees.
A highlight of the event was the distribution of sanction orders and beneficiary kits to several tribal individuals under Scheduled Tribe (ST) welfare schemes operational in the district. This initiative reflected the administration's commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of tribal communities and supporting their socio-economic development. The overwhelming participation of tribal members made the occasion a resounding success, reinforcing the spirit of inclusivity and progress. ADDC Sukhdev Samyal, ADC Kulbushan Khajuria PO ICDS Mohammad Anwar Banday, ASP Iftikhar, CPO Narinder Kumar and all district/sectoral officers were present.
At Kishtwar
The District Administration Kishtwar celebrated Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas to commemorate the birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda with an overwhelming participation of over 15,000 people across the district.
The grand event took the central stage at Historical Chowgan Ground and was attended by DDC Chairperson Pooja Thakur, Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Kumar Shavan, SSP Abdul Qayoom, ADC Pawan Kotwal, besides other officers of Civil and police administration, DDC councilors, prominent members of the tribal community and ST students.
The festival showcased a rich array of tribal cultural performances, displays of tribal produce through the stalls erected at the venue. A major highlight of the event was awareness about CSSs of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs aligned with the theme of Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkrasht Abhiyan.
The musical performance by renowned singer Dr. Deepali Wattal and Suhaib Kandoo mesmerised and captivated the audiences throughout the event. The Traditional Gujjar Dance and folk dances by Buddhist, Paddari, and other tribal artists added vibrancy to the celebration.
Speaking on the occasion, DDC Chairperson emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between the district administration and tribal communities to promote for latter’s socio-economic and educational upliftment .
Other highlights of the programme included a Gojjari poem recital, and dance performances by students like Tavishi Anand and ST Hostal Chatroo students, which energized the audience.
Meanwhile, the officers including CAO Amjed Hussain Malik imparted awareness to participants about Agriculture and allied schemes, while representatives of Banks threw light on the credit linked livelihood schemes meant for STs and farmers.
The programme ended with the felicitation ceremony wherein the participants and artists were given the Mementos, cash prizes and School Bags by DC Kishtwar in presence of senior officers.
An awareness on Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Abhiyan was also launched with encouragement of girls. The programme concluded with the Vote of thanks by ACD Phulail Singh.
At Poonch
The District Administration Poonch actively joined the Nation in the ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Divas’ celebrations by web casting the PM’s address and engaging with local communities in presence of Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal and district officers.
The celebrations featured tribal product stalls established by various departments, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of the local tribal communities, along with vibrant cultural programs.
In addition to the festivities, the District Administration announced a 10-day Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) Campaign from November 15 to November 26, 2024. This initiative aims to conduct Gram Sabhas across all panchayats, directly engaging with tribal communities to disseminate information about 25 key government schemes designed to uplift the tribal population.
At Udhampur
District Administration Udhampur, in collaboration with the ICDS Department, celebrated Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, marking the birth anniversary of iconic tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda, at the District Headquarters.
The main event was held at Riwaayat Hall, with DDC Chairperson Lal Chand being the chief guest and Additional Deputy Commissioner Prem Singh the guest of honour. PO Poshan Subash Dogra presided over the program.
The event witnessed the participation of DDC Members, Assistant Commissioner Development Dr. Ranjit Singh Kotwal, Chief Planning Officer, Mohd Iqbal Zargar, Assistant Commissioner Panchayat Tanveer Ahme and other senior officers, prominent citizens, students and members of the tribal community.
Addressing the gathering, DDC Chairperson emphasized the importance of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, celebrated annually to honor the contribution of the tribal community in preserving cultural heritage and promoting Indian values of national pride, valor and hospitality. He applauded the unique work culture of the tribal community and stressed the need to preserve their rich heritage while fostering inclusivity and unity.
The chief guest also inspected stalls set up by various departments, showcasing local products and initiatives aimed at enhancing tribal welfare. Subhash Chander Dogra District Programme Officer Poshan who is also Nodal Officer Tribal Affairs for Udhampur District, highlighted the significance of day and gave detailed account of the activities undertaken during the coming week.
The program featured vibrant cultural performances, with students from tribal institutions presenting traditional folk songs and captivating dance performances that highlighted the rich heritage of tribal communities.
A student from the Gujjar & Bakerwal Hostel delivered an inspiring speech, praising the legacy of Birsa Munda and commending the government's decision to honor him through Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.
Renowned artists also graced the event, with Mahir Choudhary enchanting the audience with a traditional Gojri song and celebrated singer Bishan Dass leaving the gathering spellbound with his soulful performance.
Later, the DDC Chairperson distributed solar lights to beneficiaries and handed over sanction orders under the Tejaswini Scheme. Additionally, meritorious students from the tribal community were felicitated for their exceptional achievements in academics, inspiring others to strive for excellence.
