Agartala: Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region, Jyotiraditya Scindia, on Friday stated that if the world had adhered to the principles and values upheld by tribal societies, global challenges such as climate change and global warming might not have become today’s harsh realities.
Speaking at the Janajatiya Gourav Divas event at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan in Agartala, Scindia said, “Tribal societies have always protected our land, forests, and water. They place their traditions and legacy above all else, which keeps them deeply connected to their roots. Had we embraced their values and principles, crises like climate change and global warming could have been avoided.”
The Union Minister paid tribute to “Bhagwan Birsa Munda” on his birth anniversary and highlighted the contributions of tribal revolutionaries who defended their culture from various invaders.
“Bhagwan Birsa Munda made the ultimate sacrifice fighting for our country. Many leaders and revolutionaries from tribal societies bravely stood against the Mughals and the British Empire. On this occasion, I pay my respects to them. The history of tribal communities is an integral part of our nation. However, this rich legacy of courage and sacrifice was neither celebrated nor properly taught during the Congress regime,” Scindia claimed.
Criticizing the Congress government, Scindia remarked, “The Congress was preoccupied with its own agenda during its prolonged rule. As a result, the stories of revolutionary figures like Birsa Munda and Queen Durgamati never entered mainstream discourse. For decades, tribal communities were neglected under the Congress leadership. However, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in power, this changed. PM Modi became the first Prime Minister to visit Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s birthplace and launch comprehensive schemes for tribal welfare.”
Presenting data, the Minister noted, “A significant sum of Rs 24,000 crore has been allocated for the development of 12,000 tribal villages nationwide. These funds are aimed at improving education, providing potable water, and addressing other essential sectors. Over the last decade, 500 Ekalavya Vidyalayas have been established, 40,000 farmers have received Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loans, and one lakh houses have been constructed for tribal communities.”
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