Kupwara, November 15: Janjatya Gaurav Divas was celebrated with great enthusiasm today in the frontier district of Kupwara. The event included an afforestation program led by District Development Commissioner (DDC) Ayushi Sudan, in association with ICDS beneficiaries from Sector Mughalpora, to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of “Birsa Munda.”
A mega event under the Dharti Aaba Gramin Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAGUA) was held at the Gujjar Bakewell Hostel in Kupwara, showcasing the efforts of the district administration to transform the rural and tribal areas through sustainable and inclusive development.
The event featured a variety of activities, including an orientation program, cultural performances from the Scheduled Tribe (ST) community, an awareness campaign, an exhibition highlighting tribal innovations, and the sharing of success stories of ST entrepreneurs. Speeches, tribal art, dance, and historical showcases were also part of the event, fostering respect and appreciation for these communities among the wider public.
MLA Kupwara, Fayaz Ahmed Mir, was the chief guest on the occasion.
The event was attended by District Development Commissioner Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan; Vice Chairman District Development Council, Haji Farooq Mir; DDC member Kalaroos, Ch. Mustafa Rahi; district officers; ST citizens; general public; students; and ST entrepreneurs.
While addressing the gathering, the District Development Commissioner emphasized that the event aimed at empowering and developing tribal communities, as well as promoting their rich cultural heritage.
The DDC also announced a 9-day nationwide IEC campaign, running from November 15 to November 26, to raise awareness about the Dharti Aaba Gramin Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAGUA) in designated Panchayats across the district.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The campaign will feature orientation programs on the PESA Act and the Forest Rights Act (FRA), in addition to block-level Aadhaar enrollment, saturation camps for the distribution of entitlements such as Ayushman Bharat and Kisan Saman Yojana, all focused on empowering tribal residents.
The mega event also included the singing of the national anthem, fostering a sense of patriotism and unity among the participants.
Cultural performances, speeches, and activities highlighting tribal art, dance, and history captivated the audience, helping to foster greater respect and appreciation for the tribal communities.
The students of the Gujjar Bakerwal Hostel in Kupwara delivered scintillating cultural performances, showcasing vibrant music, dance, and art forms. These performances celebrated the richness of tribal cultural heritage, leaving the spectators thoroughly engaged and entertained.
Stalls set up by various line departments provided valuable resources and information to the tribal participants. These stalls focused on areas such as animal care, farming techniques, and agricultural advancements tailored to the needs of the community.
A “Nasha Mukt” (Drug-Free) pledge was taken by all participants, promoting a collective commitment to saying no to drugs.
The event also included a plantation drive led by dignitaries, promoting environmental sustainability, forest protection, and conservation.
Additionally, special Gram Sabhas were organized in designated Panchayats across the district, where the Prime Minister’s speech was live-streamed. Orientation programs on the PESA Act and FRA were also held, further empowering the tribal communities.