Our Correspondent
Kohima, Nov. 15 (EMN): As part of the Janjatiya Gaurav Divas 2024 commemoration, a Tribal Walkathon was organised in Kohima, which was flagged off by Advisor for School Education and SCERT, Dr. Kekhrielhoulie Yhome from Nagaland Civil Secretariat gate on Friday.
Yhome, alongside 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.”
Earlier, Angelina Tajen, Secretary of Tribal Affairs, delivered the keynote address, emphasising the event as a celebration of the contributions made by tribal communities throughout the nation’s history.
This year also 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 announced 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 is 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.
Dr.
Kekhrielhoulie Yhome, Ashok Kumar Gupta, Angelina Tajen with department
officials and participants from various tribes at NLA gate, Kohima on Thursday.
Tribal artwork exhibition, folktale narration event held
Later in the day, an exhibition of tribal artwork and a folktale narration event was held at the DUDA conference hall, 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 added.
Ashok Kumar Gupta, Deputy Secretary of the 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.