PM Modi meets Janjati Suraksha Manch, discusses development, empowerment
New Delhi, May 29
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday met representatives of the Janjati Suraksha Manch in New Delhi and held discussions on issues related to the development and empowerment of tribal communities.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said he had the opportunity to meet the Forum's representatives and commended their dedication to the tribal community.
"Today, I had the opportunity to meet with representatives of the Tribal Security Forum in New Delhi. Their dedication to the tribal community is truly commendable. During this meeting, we engaged in meaningful discussions on various topics related to the development of tribal communities and their empowerment," PM Modi said.
Earlier on Sunday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that tribal icon Birsa Munda had spread the message of protecting faith, forests, and identity among tribal communities across the country, asserting that the freedom fighter's Ulgulan movement had shaken the foundations of British rule.
Addressing the 'Janjati Sanskritik Samagam' in Delhi, Shah said the year marks the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda and highlighted his role in uniting tribal communities despite the lack of communication facilities during that era.
The Union Home Minister further said that forests, hills, and water bodies are central to the faith, livelihood, and cultural identity of tribal communities. He described the tribal way of life as the "greatest sustainable model" and said tribal communities had upheld the principle of "unity in diversity and diversity in unity" without written rules.
"For our tribal brothers, these water bodies, forests, and hills are centers of faith, a means of livelihood, and an impregnable fortress for the protection of their identity and culture. Today, if there is the greatest sustainable model, it is the one created by our tribal communities, and we have come forward to protect it. Without any written rules, all tribes have worked to realise the mantra of 'unity in diversity and diversity in unity'," said Shah.
The Home Minister underlined the constitutional right of every individual to practise their faith with dignity and said that religion should not be changed through "greed, temptation, or force."
"Our Constitution makers have given every individual the right to live with self-respect in their original faith. No one can convert anyone's religion through greed, temptation, or force. And I believe that if the tribal congregation (Vanvasi Kumbh) gathered here today resolves that no matter what our faith is, we will continue to live our lives through the various types of beliefs that tribal communities hold, it will be significant," said Amit Shah.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's good that the government is talking about development, but I hope it's not just empty promises. Our tribal brothers and sisters have been neglected for decades - they need proper healthcare, education, and land rights, not just photo-ops. Also, Amit Shah's comments about forced conversions are important, but let's ensure this doesn't become a tool to harass or target anyone. The tribal way of life is indeed sustainable - we should learn from them rather than trying to 'civilize' them.
Birsa Munda was a true hero! His Ulgulan movement is an inspiration for all Indians. It's great that the government is celebrating his 150th birth anniversary. However, I hope the development doesn't come at the cost of their forests and water bodies. The Home Minister's words about protecting their identity and sustainable model are very encouraging. Let's see some concrete action - road connectivity, schools, and hospitals in remote tribal areas. 🚀
Interesting to see an outsider's perspective - I'm from Canada, and our indigenous communities face similar struggles. It's heartening that PM Modi is engaging with tribal representatives directly. The emphasis on protecting faith and culture resonates globally. Here's hoping India can set an example of genuine tribal empowerment while preserving their unique identity. 🙏
As an Indian, I'm glad to see this focus. But I'm a bit skeptical - the government talks a lot about tribal welfare, yet many villages still lack basic amenities. The fact that they met with Janjati Suraksha Manch, which has raised concerns about land acquisition and displacement, is a positive step. However, words need to match actions. Amit Shah's statement on not converting through force is good, but this must be applied equally to all communities. Let's hope this meeting leads to real change on the ground. 🤞
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.