President Droupadi Murmu delivered a powerful message on the significance of linguistic heritage during a landmark event in Jharkhand. She emphasized that while learning multiple languages is beneficial, one must never abandon their native tongue.
A Historic Gathering at Dishom Jaherthan
The President attended the 22nd Santali Parsi Maha (language day) alongside the centenary celebrations of the Ol Chiki script. The event took place at Dishom Jaherthan in Karandih, on the outskirts of Jamshedpur, on Monday. The venue was filled with a festive atmosphere as large crowds, many dressed in vibrant traditional tribal attire, gathered eagerly to see the President.
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren and Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar were also present on the occasion. Enthusiastic attendees who could not enter the main grounds lined the roadside for a chance to glimpse President Murmu.
President's Call to Cherish Linguistic Roots
Beginning her address with a Santhali prayer to 'Jaher Aayo' (the tribal mother deity), the President spoke to the gathering in the Santali language. "There is no harm in learning every language but never forget your own mother tongue," she stated. She urged people to consistently use their native language when communicating within their communities.
Highlighting the modern relevance of the script, President Murmu noted that Ol Chiki is now available on digital platforms and should be leveraged to promote the language further. She praised the organizers for their relentless work in upholding 'Santhali Ashmita' (Santhali identity) through the promotion of the Ol Chiki script.
Substantial Support for Tribal Development
In a significant announcement, the President revealed that the Union government has allocated Rs 24,000 crore for the development of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). This funding underscores the government's commitment to the welfare of tribal communities.
The event also served as a platform to honor contributions to Santali literature. President Murmu felicitated 12 distinguished Santali individuals for their outstanding work in this field.
The celebration marked a century of the Ol Chiki movement, which was initiated by Pandit Raghunath Murmu in 1925. The centenary commemorates a hundred years of dedicated effort to preserve and promote the unique Santali script and cultural identity.
