TFP Bureau, Raipur, November 15, 2025: A grand district-level ceremony was organised at the Rajmohini Devi Bhawan Auditorium on Saturday to mark Tribal Pride Day, observed on the 150th birth anniversary of Lord Birsa Munda. The event witnessed the participation of State Finance Minister and Minister-in-Charge of Surguja district, O.P. Choudhary, who attended as the chief guest.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the gathering virtually and inaugurated as well as laid the foundation stone for several development projects. He paid homage to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, recalling his struggle for tribal rights and his sacrifice for the nation. Extending his greetings on Tribal Pride Day, the Prime Minister emphasised the importance of remembering the valour and contributions of tribal freedom fighters.
In his address, Finance Minister Choudhary said that India’s tribal heroes played a pivotal role in resisting colonial rule. He noted that the government continues to honour the legacy of Birsa Munda, whose birth anniversary has been officially designated as Tribal Pride Day by the Prime Minister. He added that the observance is a tribute to the rich cultural heritage, history, and contributions of tribal communities across the country.
Lundra MLA Prabodh Minj extended his greetings and highlighted the positive impact of government welfare schemes introduced for tribal upliftment. He said that all essential facilities—roads, healthcare, education, drinking water, and electricity—have increasingly reached tribal regions, enabling noticeable improvements in their quality of life.
Sitapur MLA Ramkumar Toppo described the day as a moment of national pride. Reflecting on colonial injustices, he said that during British rule, tribal lands and culture were systematically targeted. He recalled Birsa Munda’s revolt, which led to protections ensuring tribal land could not be purchased by non-tribal individuals—an enduring safeguard for tribal communities. He added that tribal society has also played a significant role in preserving cultural identity through generations.
District Panchayat President Nirupa Singh, Vice-President Devnarayan Yadav, Mayor Manjusha Bhagat, Municipal Corporation Chairperson Harminder Singh Tinni, Surguja Divisional Commissioner Narendra Dugga, IG Deepak Jha, Collector Vilas Bhoskar, SP Rajesh Agarwal, public representatives, officials, and citizens from various tribal communities attended the program.
Outstanding Students Felicitated for Board Examination Results
Tribal students from Surguja district who excelled in high school and higher secondary examinations were honored during the function. Among the high achievers in Class 10 were Samli, Sharda Singh, and Vidya Singh from Government Prayas Residential School, Ambikapur; Nilishma Tirkey from Saint Eugene English Medium School, Boda Batauli; and Alok Kumar from Government Multi-Secondary Secondary School, Ambikapur.
In Class 12, the awardees included Anup Khess from Christian Higher Secondary School, Suryapara; Jenirima Minj and Kavita Toppo from Vivekananda Vidya Niketan Higher Secondary School, Ambikapur; Sameer Khakha from Government Prayas Residential School, Ambikapur; and Anurag Singh from Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Lundra.
Regional Cultural Competitions Showcase Tribal Talent
The program also featured district-level competitions of the North Chhattisgarh Region Tribal Folk Dance Festival, where 14 teams selected from development blocks presented traditional dance performances.
Additionally, the district-level round of the Veer Narayan Singh Arts Festival 2025 was held, featuring seven teams showcasing artistic talent in various categories.
The celebrations concluded with enthusiastic participation from the public, reflecting the enduring cultural pride and collective respect for the legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and the contributions of tribal communities to the nation’s history.
