Govt committed to development of tribals: Governor
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, November 14 2022: A one-day National Conference on 'Tribal Heroes in India's Freedom Movement' was organised by Dhanamanjuri University (DMU), Imphal in association with National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), New Delhi as part of the 'Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav' programme of the Commission at the Central Hall of GP Women College, here, on Monday.

Speaking as chief guest at the inaugural session, Governor La Ganesan asserted that the government is committed to all round development of tribals in the country.

The governments at the centre as well as in the state are making relentless efforts towards improving connectivity in the tribal areas and standard of living for the last many decades, he stressed.

Emphasising on the significance of remembering tribal leaders' struggle during colonial imperialism, the Governor stated that the freedom that the people of the country enjoy today was not attained only by the movement of a handful of people as the brave heroes belonging to the tribal communities contributed significantly to the freedom struggle.

"We should always remember that numerous tribals who fought the oppressors to attain freedom.

Today's generation, particularly youth, should be made aware of the life and values of these heroes.

It will instil a strong sense of patriotism in them," he said.

The Governor maintained that tribal leaders, in every nook and corner of the countiy, had fought against the British colonial power.

Their fight was for their land and most importantly, their people.

However, their contribution to the freedom movement remained ignored, Ganesan opined.

Recalling the great tribal freedom fighters like Rani Gaidinliu, Birsa Munda, etc., he mentioned that the history of tribal heroes has been all-encompassing and all-embracing with many of the protests against the British being led by tribal heroes.

Acknowledging the contribution of these unsung tribal freedom fighters, the governments, both at the centre and in the state have been working for the all-round development of the tribal people, he reiterated.

The Governor also lauded NCST, New Delhi for organising such an important event as a part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.

Earlier, the Governor opened a photo exhibition of tribal freedom fighters as a part of the conference.

The programme was also attended by DMU vice chancellor Prof N Rajmuhon as president, NCST New Delhi joint secretary Konthan Touthang as guest of honour and Akhil Bharatiya Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram Educational Projects national coordinator PV Radhakrishna as special guest.

MPSC former chairman retired lieutenant general Dr Konsam Himalay Singh, tribal delegates and students also attended the conference.

Comment