President Droupadi Murmu launched the Bastar Pandum 2026, a vibrant three-day tribal cultural festival in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh. The festival, held at Lalbagh Ground, showcases the art, traditions, and way of life of Bastar’s tribal communities. President Murmu highlighted the festival as a joyous celebration intertwined with every aspect of life in the region.
President Murmu acknowledged the attraction of Bastar’s traditions while recognizing the toll of four decades of Maoist insurgency. She credited government action against Maoist violence for dismantling this shadow and facilitating the return of many to mainstream society. The President praised the increasing number of Maoist surrenders in Chhattisgarh and emphasized efforts to ensure their rehabilitation and dignified lives through welfare schemes.
President Murmu commended the state government’s initiatives like Niyad Nellanar Yojana for empowering villagers and noted visible signs of progress such as improved infrastructure and reopened schools. She encouraged those who renounced violence to have faith in democracy, work hard, and resist any disruptions to peace. The President highlighted the government’s focus on uplifting marginalized tribal areas through schemes like PM-JANMAN Yojana and Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan.
Education was a central theme in President Murmu’s speech, emphasizing its role in individual and societal advancement. She highlighted the establishment of “Eklavya Model Residential Schools” in tribal regions for quality education. The President urged parents to prioritize their children’s education for a brighter future. President Murmu also recognized Bastar Dussehra as a symbol of tribal culture and unity, encouraging the preservation of heritage alongside development.
President Murmu urged the youth of Bastar to utilize welfare schemes for personal and regional progress, contributing to a developed India. The event was attended by Governor Ramen Deka, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, and other dignitaries.
