PM Modi Criticizes Past Governments For Overlooking Tribal Contributions To India’s Freedom Struggle

Patna, 15th November 2024: On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized past Congress-led governments for overlooking the role of India’s tribal communities in the country’s freedom struggle. Without directly naming the Congress or any individuals, he pointed out that there was an effort to attribute the country’s independence solely to one party and one family.

“If independence was the result of just one family, then why did Birsa Munda lead the ‘Ulgulan’ movement?” questioned PM Modi.

Speaking at the Janjatiya Gaurav Divas event, which marked the beginning of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of tribal leader Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the Prime Minister highlighted the important contributions of tribal leaders like Munda in the freedom movement, noting that their roles had been largely ignored by previous governments.

PM Modi also stressed the tribal community’s historical significance, acknowledging the failure of earlier administrations to give them the recognition they deserved. He expressed pride in the BJP and NDA’s decision to elect Draupadi Murmu, a tribal woman, as India’s President.

“The tribal community did not receive justice earlier,” Modi said, adding that many tribal leaders had played a vital role in India’s fight for independence.

The Prime Minister emphasized his government’s efforts to improve the lives of tribal people, pointing to their deep connection with nature and their contributions to environmental preservation. He highlighted major policy changes, including the establishment of a dedicated ministry for tribal welfare and an increase in the tribal development budget from Rs 25,000 crore to Rs 1.25 lakh crore.

Additionally, Modi announced the opening of new sports facilities for tribal athletes, recognizing their growing presence in sports. He also mentioned that 90 forest products now have a Minimum Support Price (MSP) and that there are ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access for tribal communities.

In conclusion, PM Modi called for national unity to preserve and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of India’s tribal communities, ensuring their contributions are acknowledged in the nation’s progress.