Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada and Birsa Munda | 03 Nov 2025

Source: PIB

The Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada (1st–15th November 2025) marks a nationwide celebration honouring India’s tribal heroes, culture, and contributions, culminating in Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas on 15th November, commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

• Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh(JJGV): JJGV  (15th November 2024 – 15th November 2025) led by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, it marks 150 years of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and turns the annual Janjatiya Gaurav Divas into a year-long movement for tribal pride, inclusion, and development.
  • It emphasises Jan Bhagidari and a whole-of-government approach, building on initiatives like Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Utkarsh Gram Abhiyan and Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyay Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN).
• Bhagwan Birsa Munda: Born on 15th November 1875 in Chotanagpur region (present-day Jharkhand),  He was a tribal leader from the Munda community. 

  • British policies like the Permanent Settlement Act of 1793 destroyed the Khuntkatti land system, forcing tribals into begar, debt, and displacement. 

  • Birsa converted to Christianity in 1886 but later rejected it, realising its link to British rule, saying “Saheb Saheb ek topi.” 

  • He founded the Birsait faith, blending tribal traditions with reformist ideas, and he was revered as “Bhagwan” and “Dharti ka Abba.”

  • In 1899, Birsa led the Ulgulan (The Great Tumult), a tribal rebellion aimed at ending British rule, expelling outsiders, and establishing Birsa Raj.
    • His movement used guerrilla tactics, refused colonial laws and rent, and became one of the most organised tribal uprisings in India.
    • Arrested in 1900, he died at just 25. His legacy inspired the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act (1908), protecting tribal land rights.