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KOHIMA — As part of the Janjatiya Gaurav Divas 2024 (Tribal Pride Day) commemoration, a tribal walkathon was organised in Kohima, which was flagged off by advisor of School Education and SCERT, Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, from Nagaland Civil Secretariat gate on Friday.
Yhome along with other dignitaries, officials from the Department of Tribal Affairs and representatives from all tribes of Nagaland took part in the walkathon, which culminated at the Nagaland Legislative Assembly gate.
In his address, the advisor acknowledged the significant contributions of India's tribal communities to the nation and pointed out that Nagaland is also a tribal state.
Mentioning the Santhals, Khasi, Nagas and other tribes from states such as Bihar and Odisha, he highlighted the sacrifices made by tribal communities in the country’s freedom struggle, noting that “freedom comes with a price.”
Delivering the keynote address, Angelina Tajen, secretary of Tribal Affairs, stated that the event is a celebration of the contributions made by tribal communities throughout the nation’s history.
“This year marks the 150th birth anniversary of the tribal leader and freedom fighter, Birsa Munda, whose legacy continues to inspire India’s tribal communities,” she said.
Tajen also informed about the department’s upcoming Information Education and Communication (IEC) campaign launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 2.
She informed the gathering that the walkathon heralds a series of events celebrating tribal heritage with simultaneous programmes held across all states and union territories of the country.
She further said that the walkathon was not only an event but a symbol of unity among various tribes, honouring their contributions to the country’s cultural heritage.
The programme, moderated by M Kichung, nodal officer, saw active participation from various tribes of Nagaland, who marched in traditional attires and performed folk songs.
Tribal artwork exhibition, folktale narration event
Later in the day, an exhibition of tribal artwork and a folktale narration event was held at the DUDA conference hall, which was attended by MLA Imtichoba Chang, MLA Manpon Konyak, and Y Mankhao Konyak as honoured guests.
Dr. Meyisangla Longkumer, joint director of Tribal Affairs Department, moderated the event, where representatives from various tribes narrated folk tales in their respective dialects.
In his address, Manpon Konyak emphasised the importance of preserving tribal heritage and raising awareness within the community, which constitutes 8.6% of India’s population.
Reflecting on the birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda, he urged the community to actively participate in initiatives led by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to alleviate poverty and improve infrastructure. He also underscored the need for a positive approach in implementing government programmes while preserving cultural identity.
“Let this serve as a reminder to exhibit what we have inherited from our ancestors and envision a brighter future for our tribal identity,” the MLA said.
Ashok Kumar Gupta, deputy secretary of Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, highlighted the government’s efforts to empower tribal communities through self-reliance and inclusive growth. He also underscored the prime minister's commitment to enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, education and livelihoods in tribal villages.
Gupta paid tribute to Birsa Munda, a revered tribal hero born on November 13, 1875, in Jharkhand, known as a social reformer and protector of tribal rights. Gupta also underscored the significance of initiatives like Dharti Awa, which aims to preserve tribal culture while fostering modern development.
“This effort requires collaboration between the central and state governments and local communities. Together, we can create prosperous villages and a brighter future for our tribal brothers and sisters,” he said.
NYKS Zunheboto: The Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), Zunheboto, under the aegis of Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, observed Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas at Olympic Higher Secondary School, Zunheboto, on Friday.
Speaking at the event, Zakato L Zhimo, NYKS, Zunheboto, said that Birsa Munda was a tribal activist and folk hero who spearheaded a tribal religious millenarian movement in the Bengal Presidency (now Jharkhand) in the late 19th century, during the British Raj.
The students also delivered speeches on various freedom fighters of the country.
BJP Mokokchung ST morcha: The ST morcha of BJP Mokokchung district on Friday observed the Tribal Pride Day (Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas) at its office, which was attended by officials from the ST morcha and party office bearers of Mokokchung district.
Speaking on the occasion, the district president of ST morcha, Oyimpong Longchar, stressed on the culture heritage and tribal diversity of the country. He enunciated how the BJP Mokokchung has brought about the cohesion in tandem with the development of the world.
Longchar also expressed thanks to the Nagaland ST morcha president, Tsachola Rothong, for his constant encouragement in its endeavour to make BJP more stronger in the district and the state. He also expressed gratitude to the president of BJP Mokokchung district, S Bendang Aier, and his colleagues for their understanding and presence thereby making the programme a grand success.