President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday said Bastar is moving on a new path of development with the combined efforts of the government and active participation of local people, as she urged tribal communities to preserve their cultural heritage while contributing to nation-building.
The President made the remarks while interacting with a delegation from Bastar Mandal comprising winners of Bastar Pandum 2026, Pargana Manjhi and Chalaki of Bastar at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai were also present on the occasion.
Describing Bastar Pandum as more than just a cultural festival, President Murmu said it represents the rich traditions and cultural identity of Bastar and aims to establish the region’s identity on national and international platforms. She said such initiatives have helped reconnect young people with their traditions, customs and heritage while also promoting tourism and creating employment opportunities.
The President praised the role of Manjhi and Chalaki in preserving social harmony and cultural values, describing them as an effective bridge between the community and the administration. She expressed confidence that their leadership would continue to promote peace, prosperity and social well-being in the region.
Highlighting the transformation underway in Bastar, President Murmu said people are moving away from an atmosphere of violence and embracing opportunities in education, employment and development. She said the region is witnessing significant improvements in infrastructure, with roads, electricity and drinking water reaching remote villages, while schools that had remained closed for years are once again functioning with children returning to classrooms.
“Today, an atmosphere of hope, trust and progress is taking shape in Bastar. This transformation is a source of joy and pride for the entire nation,” she said.
The President also noted that tribal youth are excelling in fields such as education, science, art and sports. Referring to the recently organised Bastar Olympics in Chhattisgarh, she said tribal communities possess immense natural talent in sports and the arts.
President Murmu expressed confidence that tribal communities would actively participate in India’s development journey while preserving and promoting their unique cultural identity. She called for strengthening the values of cooperation and social harmony and stressed the need to work for the empowerment of women, children, senior citizens and other disadvantaged sections of society.
The President also urged people to make water conservation, environmental protection and the preservation of natural resources an integral part of their daily lives.
