'Let us honour their invaluable contribution': Telangana Governor, CM greet tribals on Day of Indigenous Peoples
Hyderabad, Aug 9
Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy greeted tribals on Sunday on the occasion of the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples.
The Governor extended his warm greetings to "all Adivasi brothers and sisters". He said that the rich culture, traditions and age-old wisdom of Adivasi communities are a priceless treasure of our heritage.
"For generations, they have been custodians of forests, water, biodiversity and nature, preserving our planet for future generations," he said and called upon everyone to respect their rights, dignity, identity and way of life, while ensuring equal opportunities and inclusive development. "Let us honour their invaluable contribution and work together to preserve their heritage and build a sustainable future for all," he said.
On the occasion of World Indigenous Peoples' Day, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy extended his warm wishes to the indigenous people, saying they revere nature as God, the forest as their mother, and safeguard their culture and traditions across generations.
"The root of world civilisation, a lifestyle inseparably intertwined with nature - the culture of indigenous peoples. The knowledge, culture, traditions, collective way of life, and cultural preservation of indigenous communities who have, for generations, made conservation of nature the cornerstone of their existence serve as a guiding light for all humanity. Let us all stand together to honor their rights, their very existence, their culture and to ensure their welfare, development, and self-respect," he stated.
Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K.T. Rama Rao stated that indigenous people, symbols of diverse cultures and traditions, are nature's guardians.
"The Adivasis - who love and revere forests, trees, anthills, and animals - are the embodiment of the courage of Kumram Bheem, the warrior who raised the rallying cry of Jal, Jungle, Zameen," he said.
The former minister said for the advancement of Scheduled Tribes (STs), the KCR government passed a resolution in the Assembly to increase ST reservations from 6 per cent to 10 per cent, and subsequently issued orders. It created habitations and tribal dwellings as village panchayats.
"The BRS government constructed the Kumram Bheem Adivasi Bhavan in the heart of Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, as a symbol of Adivasi self-respect. In addition to naming the Asifabad district after Kumram Bheem, the government established a beautiful memorial park at Jodeghat," he posted on 'X'.
"Providing clean drinking water to habitations and dwellings, increasing the number of ST gurukuls and colleges, offering Ambedkar Overseas Scholarships, and under the CMSTEI scheme, training tribal children to become industrialists - many such programs took place during KCR's tenure," he added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Beautiful words from both leaders. The tribal connection to nature is something urban Indians have lost. We should learn from their sustainable way of living. Jal, Jungle, Zameen - so true! 🌿
KTR is right about the BRS government's contributions. The Kumram Bheem memorial and increased reservations were significant steps. But let's remember these are political points - the real test is whether current governments continue and expand these initiatives regardless of party lines.
Every year we hear these speeches on Indigenous Peoples Day, but what actually changes on the ground? Tribal communities still face displacement, lack of healthcare and proper education. Words are cheap - we need implementation, not just greetings. 💔
The reference to Kumram Bheem and the Jal Jungle Zameen movement is powerful. Our tribal heroes fought for their rights long before independence. It's fitting that we honor them today. Jai Adivasi! 🔥
Interesting to see how India celebrates its indigenous communities. Back home in the US, we have a lot to learn from this approach. The emphasis on nature conservation as part of cultural identity is particularly admirable.
K Karan T Respect to all the We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.