Speaker attends Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas event

Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania on Saturday presided over the valedictory ceremony of the 5th State-Level Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas held at Bharmour to mark the 150th birth anniversary of tribal freedom icon Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania attended the event as the special guest.

In his address, the Speaker paid rich tributes to Birsa Munda, recalling his significant role in India’s freedom struggle and his relentless fight to protect the rights of tribal communities. He said Birsa Munda mobilised tribal society against British oppression, creating a historic wave of awakening that remains a proud chapter in India’s independence movement.

Pathania said that ensuring holistic and balanced development of tribal regions, addressing their contemporary challenges, and fulfilling the needs of the people would be the true tribute to Birsa Munda.

He also remembered iconic leaders of the freedom struggle, including Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Vithalbhai Patel, for their invaluable contributions.

Speaking on tribal development in Himachal Pradesh, the Speaker said the foundation was laid by the state’s first Chief Minister Dr YS Parmar and was further strengthened by former CM Virbhadra Singh. He added that every former Chief Minister had played a noteworthy role in shaping the development of the state’s tribal belts.

During the event, Pathania honoured officials, employees, and cultural teams who contributed to the successful organisation of Tribal Pride Day activities held from November 1 to 14.

Cultural troupes from Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti, Pangi, and Bharmour showcased vibrant folk performances, reflecting the rich tribal heritage of Himachal Pradesh. Exhibition stalls were also set up to disseminate information about government schemes and display products made by self-help groups.

Earlier, Bharmour Additional District Magistrate Kulbir Singh Rana welcomed the gathering and presented a report on the various activities conducted as part of the Tribal Pride Day celebrations.