Jharkhand
Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada
- 01 Nov 2025
- 3 min read
Why in News?
Starting 1st November 2025, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs has rolled out a two-week national celebration titled “Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada.”
- The observance not only concludes the year-long Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh, but also honours the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the revered tribal icon whose birth on 15th November, 1875 is celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.
Key Points
- Nationwide Celebration: The fortnight-long event will be held across India through the combined efforts of Tribal Research Institutes (TRIs), Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs), TRIFED, and NSTFDC, showcasing the rich culture, legacy, and achievements of tribal communities.
- Major Initiatives Featured:
- PM JANMAN (Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups Development Mission): Launched in 2023, it focuses on the holistic development of 75 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) across 18 States and UTs. It provides housing, healthcare, nutrition, education, clean water, and livelihood opportunities, ensuring that the most marginalised tribal communities are integrated into the nation’s growth story.
- DAJGUA (Digital Archives of Janjatiya Gaurav and Unique Achievements): An innovative digital platform documenting tribal freedom fighters, folklore, art, and oral traditions. The archive aims to make tribal heritage accessible to students, researchers, and the public, thereby preserving India’s indigenous narratives for future generations.
- Livelihood and Entrepreneurship Programs: Under TRIFED and NSTFDC, several schemes such as Van Dhan Vikas Kendras and micro-enterprise models have empowered tribal producers through value addition, branding, and digital marketing. These initiatives have increased rural incomes and connected tribal artisans to national and international markets.
Legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda
- Bhagwan Birsa Munda (1875–1900) remains one of India’s most iconic tribal freedom fighters and reformers.
- Born in Ulihatu village (Jharkhand), he spearheaded the Ulgulan (Great Tumult), a rebellion against British rule and the exploitative Zamindari system that dispossessed tribal lands.
- His movement asserted tribal land rights, self-governance, and cultural dignity.
- Through his Birsait faith, Birsa revived indigenous traditions and inspired unity among different tribes against colonial and missionary dominance.
- Although he passed away at just 25 years old in 1900, his movement led to the enactment of Chotanagpur Tenancy Act (1908), which safeguarded tribal land ownership.
- Revered as “Dharti Aaba” (Father of the Earth), Birsa Munda’s legacy continues to inspire India’s contemporary approach to forest rights, sustainable living, and indigenous empowerment.
