Janajatiya Gaurav Diwas Observed at SCSTRTI Seva Sammana Presented, Students Felicitated

Bhubaneswar, 15 November 2025:The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Research and Training Institute (SCSTRTI) today observed the Janajatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada with great enthusiasm. The event was graced by Shri Laxman Kumar Mallik, ST, Director, Shri Sudhakar Sabara, Director, SCSTRTI, Prof. Vijaya Upadhyaya, Santali language Scholar or eminent educationist, Prof. Manmath Kundu, former Principal of Rajdhani College, Prof. Ajay Kumar Tripathy, Principal of Government Science College, Chhatrapur, and Shri Santosh Kumar Rath, Deputy Director, SCSTRTI, among others.

During the programme, the dignitaries elaborated on the life, struggles, and courage of Dharti Aba Bhagwan Birsa Munda. Prof. Upadhyaya highlighted the history of organised tribal revolts across Odisha. Prof. Kundu noted that Birsa Munda’s movement was not only against colonial rule and zamindari oppression, but also against social and economic injustice. Prof. Tripathy presented a vivid narration of Birsa Munda’s life and contributions.

Director Shri Sabara stated that the true essence of celebrating Janajatiya Gaurav Diwas lies in adopting the ideals of Birsa Munda in everyday life. Director Shri Mallick described Birsa Munda’s uprising against British rule as a symbol of the rich heritage and bravery of India’s tribal communities.

This year, the Janajatiya Gaurav Varsh celebrations were observed nationwide from 1st to 15th November to honour the rich tribal heritage, culture, and contributions to nation-building. As part of the celebrations, a tree plantation drive was organised today in memory of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. Winners of the state-level drawing competition featuring tribal students from various districts were also felicitated.

In addition, employees of SCSTRTI, including peons, security guards, gardeners, electricians, and others, were honoured with Seva Sammana as part of the Janajatiya Gaurav Varsh celebrations in recognition of their dedicated daily service to the institution. Under the ST, SC Development, Minorities & Backward Classes Welfare Department, the SCSTRTI and Odisha State Tribal Museum organised a series of special events. These included A dedicated Bhagwan Birsa Munda Pavilion, an art exhibition depicting the life and struggles of Birsa Munda, a photo exhibition on the lifestyle and culture of Odisha’s tribal communities, a display of weaving craftsmanship by the Kulis tribe, a painting exhibition, and Museum visits for school and college students to provide exposure to Odisha’s tribal heritage. The day-long celebration highlighted the rich cultural legacy of tribal communities and reaffirmed their invaluable contribution to the nation.