Jharkhand celebrated its 25th State Foundation Day and the 150th birth anniversary of its iconic tribal leader, Bhagwan Birsa Munda, with widespread enthusiasm at his birthplace, Ulihatu. The village resonated with cheers for ‘Dhartia Aba’ as a large assembly of followers, villagers, elected officials, and visitors paid their respects.
The dignitaries present included Governor Santosh Gangwar, Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Union Minister Jual Oram, MP Kalicharan Munda, former Union Minister Arjun Munda, and MLAs Ram Surya Munda, Sudip Gudiya, and Vikas Singh Munda. They joined the Chief Secretary and other officials in offering tributes to the revered freedom fighter.
Governor Santosh Gangwar, speaking at the state ceremony, lauded the historical significance and sacrifices of tribal communities in the nation’s journey to independence. He encouraged the gathering to be inspired by their spirit. The Governor proposed the idea of a grand Birsa Munda statue in Ulihatu and committed to developing the village into a model, tourist-attracting destination. He also stressed the importance of cultural pride and identity.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren addressed the occasion, emphasizing Jharkhand’s legacy of heroism and the government’s commitment to realizing the aspirations of those who fought for the state’s creation. He assured that the government is diligently working to understand and address the concerns of all sections of society. Soren highlighted the government’s focus on the holistic growth of tribal and indigenous communities through various welfare schemes, ensuring they are prioritized in development plans. He noted that half of the state’s resources are allocated towards empowering women, children, rural communities, the poor, and farmers. The Chief Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to a ‘village-first’ approach, ensuring development reaches every household.
Soren remarked on Jharkhand’s growth over 25 years, framing it as a youthful state ready to take on new challenges. He expressed his vision of partnering with the young generation to propel Jharkhand into the ranks of India’s leading states. He also pointed out the significant improvements in healthcare and education access, contrasting them with past struggles, and outlined future plans for bolstering sports, tourism, employment, and infrastructure.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister extended warm wishes for the Foundation Day and offered his deepest reverence to Dhartia Aba Bhagwan Birsa Munda, envisioning a future of shared prosperity and development for all Jharkhand residents.