Keylong marks Tribal Pride Day

Tribal Pride Day was celebrated with immense enthusiasm at Keylong in Lahaul-Spiti district today on the 150th birth anniversary of freedom fighter and social reformer Birsa Munda.

The event was organised by the Integrated Tribal Development Project, Lahaul.

The celebration began with a vibrant procession that started from the Durga Mata Temple and proceeded to the venue at Keylong.

A large number of women participated in the procession, wearing traditional tribal attire. The cultural programme featured performances by students from different schools.

In addition to the cultural festivities, exhibitions were held by various departments, including health and family welfare, AYUSH, agriculture and horticulture, showcasing initiatives for the welfare of tribal communities.

Stalls displaying and selling local products were set up by self-help groups, promoting indigenous crafts and produce.

Special guests, including Lahaul-Spiti Assistant Commissioner Sankalp Gautam and Keylong SDM Rajneesh Sharma, paid floral tributes to Birsa Munda.

In his address, SDM Rajneesh Sharma highlighted the significant contributions of Birsa Munda in India’s freedom struggle, emphasising his role as a fighter for tribal rights and social justice.

“Today provides a valuable opportunity to further the socio-economic development of tribal communities and to recognise the contributions of Birsa Munda and other tribal heroes,” he said.

Project Officer Manoj Kumar gave a detailed account of Birsa Munda’s life and sacrifices.

He also spoke about the Dharti Aaba Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, an initiative by the Central Government with

a provision of Rs 80,000 crore aimed at improving

the livelihood of tribal communities, promoting social and economic upliftment, and integrating them into the mainstream.

The District AYUSH Officer, Block Development Officer, District Project Officer (ICDS), District Panchayat Officer, and senior officials from various district departments were present at the event.

Tribal Pride Day in Keylong not only celebrated the legacy of Birsa Munda, but also reinforced the commitment to the welfare and advancement of tribal communities in the region.