President Droupadi Murmu has made a compelling appeal to the educated members of tribal communities, urging them to act as crucial bridges connecting their native villages to the benefits of government welfare schemes. She emphasized that the development of tribal society hinges significantly on education and the proactive role of its educated youth.
A Call for Community Responsibility in Tribal Upliftment
The President delivered this message while addressing the Antar-Rajyiye Jansanskritik Samagam Mahotsav – Kartik Jatra, an interstate cultural folk gathering. The event was held in Manjhatoli, Gumla, approximately 22 kilometers from the district headquarters, on the scenic banks of the Shankh River. This location marks the tri-junction of Jharkhand, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh.
In her speech on Tuesday, Murmu pointedly addressed educated tribal people who have moved to cities and towns. She asked them to reflect on their contribution to the upliftment of their fellow community members who remain in villages. "They should visit the villages where they were born and see what facilities the other tribal are getting," she stated.
Educated Youth as Catalysts for Awareness and Access
The President outlined a clear, actionable path for these individuals. She stressed that merely the government running schemes is not enough; civil society has a vital role in ensuring these schemes reach the intended beneficiaries.
Her key directives included:
- Visiting native villages to assess ground realities.
- Creating awareness about various government schemes among villagers.
- Actively helping tribal community members apply for and avail the benefits of these schemes.
"Only then will they become aware of the benefits. Educated people must help them apply to these govt schemes and get their benefits," Murmu asserted, highlighting the gap between policy and on-the-ground access.
Focus on Vulnerable Groups and Support for New University
President Murmu also shed light on the condition of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). She informed the gathering that the Central government is working on a dedicated mission to ensure welfare schemes effectively reach these most marginalized communities.
Responding to a demand put forth by former BJP MLA Shivshankar Oraon, the President expressed her support for the establishment of an Adivasi Shakti Swayatshasi Vishwavidyalaya in the region. However, she added a note on procedural follow-up, stating, "the officials of Jharkhand, Odisha and Chhattisgarh should initiate the required process."
This address was part of the President's three-day visit to Jharkhand, which began on Sunday. Her itinerary prior to this event included attending the convocation of NIT Jamshedpur, the 22nd Santhali Parsi Maha (language day), and the centenary celebration of the Ol Chiki script in Karandih on Monday.
