Amit Shah Unveils Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s Statue, Announces ‘Adivasi Gaurav Varsh’ Celebrations

Event Highlights Contribution of Bhagwan Birsa Munda to India’s Freedom Struggle and Tribal Empowerment.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah inaugurated a majestic statue of Bhagwan Birsa Munda at Baansera Park in New Delhi today, marking the 150th birth anniversary year of the revered tribal leader. The event was graced by Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Shri Manohar Lal, Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, Union Minister of State Shri Harsh Malhotra, and other dignitaries.

Birsa Munda: A Symbol of Tribal Pride

Shri Amit Shah emphasized the Modi government's commitment to preserving tribal heritage, citing the decision to celebrate November 15 as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (Tribal Pride Day) annually. In honor of Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s legacy, Shri Shah declared the period leading up to November 15, 2025, as Adivasi Gaurav Varsh, a year dedicated to celebrating tribal pride and achievements. Additionally, Sarai Kale Khan Chowk in Delhi will be renamed 'Bhagwan Birsa Munda Chowk.'

Birsa Munda’s Lasting Legacy

The Union Home Minister highlighted Bhagwan Birsa Munda's extraordinary contributions, noting that despite his brief 25-year lifespan, he became a symbol of resistance against British colonial rule and a guardian of tribal culture. Born in 1875 in a small village in Jharkhand, Birsa Munda courageously opposed religious conversions and rallied against the exploitative practices of landlords and the colonial government.

Shri Shah elaborated on Munda’s advocacy for the integral relationship between water, forests, and land, asserting that these resources are the lifeline of tribal communities. He credited Munda for spearheading social reforms, raising awareness against alcoholism, and inspiring tribal unity. Revered as “Dharti Aba” or the “Father of the Earth,” Birsa Munda’s revolutionary actions remain etched in India’s history.

Government Initiatives for Tribal Empowerment

Highlighting the government’s strides in honoring tribal heritage, Shri Amit Shah noted that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has spearheaded several initiatives:

Establishing 20 museums dedicated to tribal freedom fighters with a budget of ₹200 crore. Notable among them are the Bhagwan Birsa Munda Museum in Ranchi and two museums in Madhya Pradesh dedicated to Shankar Shah and Raghunath Shah.

Transforming the lives of tribals through substantial financial allocations. The Union Budget 2024-25 allocates ₹1,33,000 crore for tribal development, a marked increase from ₹28,000 crore under previous administrations.

Providing basic amenities to 26,428 tribal villages under the Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana.

Distribution of ₹97,000 crore in tribal areas under the District Mineral Foundation Scheme.

Establishing 708 Eklavya Model Residential Schools to enhance tribal education.

A Tribal Leader as the First Citizen of India

Shri Shah proudly noted that for the first time in 75 years, a tribal leader, Smt. Droupadi Murmu has been elected as the President of India, reflecting the Modi government’s commitment to empowering marginalized communities.

Uplifting Tribal Regions and Eliminating Naxalism

The Home Minister highlighted the government’s success in curbing Naxalism, which had hindered tribal development for decades. He attributed this progress to focused efforts by the Modi administration, ensuring that tribal regions become centers of growth and opportunities.

Inspiration for Future Generations

Concluding the event, Shri Shah expressed hope that Bhagwan Birsa Munda's life and legacy will continue to inspire future generations. As the nation embarks on the Adivasi Gaurav Varsh, this celebration of tribal pride stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of one of India’s greatest freedom fighters.