Janjatiya Gaurav Divas observed
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, November 15 2022: Tribal Affairs and Hills minister Letpao Haokip has stated that we must not forget the importance of observing Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (Tribal Honour Day), while mentioning the issuance of commemorative coin in honour of tribal freedom fighters.

Tribal Research Institute (TRI), Manipur and Department of Tribal Affairs and Hills jointly observed Janjatiya Gaurav Divas as part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav at the auditorium of the Institute, here, on Tuesday.

Letpao, who attended as chief guest, said that the BJP was politically criticised as anti-Christian and anti-tribal, which were all false allegations.

Under PM Narendra Modi's leadership, a tribal woman was elected as the President of India, which is something unheard of in the past.

We should also not forget the issuance of a commemorative coin honouring Rani Gaidinliu as part of Tribal Honour Day, he asserted.

Emphasising the need for preparing a road map for tribal youth, the minister urged the tribal communities to take a proactive role in building a united Manipur.

He then observed that people residing in the hills have a hard time claiming ownership of their properties, which in turn, force them to take a land deed in the valley if they want to build a start-up.

It is also now time to bring about amicable solutions to all district boundary disputes, he said.

Letpao then said that the observance was held to commemorate the selfless role played by tribal leaders in the freedom struggle.

He continued that by preserving the age-old customs and traditions, tribals can preserve and protect their identity, and as such, urged for following the examples of their forefathers to live independently.

The observance was also attended by Hill Areas Committee chairman Dinganglung Gangmei; Phungyar AC MLA K Leishiyo, Tamenglong AC MLA Janghemlung Pan-mei, top officials and tribal leaders from across the state.

As part of the observance, floral tributes were offered to the statue of Rani Gaidinliu at Rani Gaidinliu Park located near Manipur High Court, followed by a freedom walk from the park to TRI.

Later, prominent tribal personalities were honoured with simple gifts at the main venue.

Cultural performances of different tribal communities were also presented to mark the event.

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