Bhubaneswar, Jan 27: In a keynote address at the inauguration of the Adivasi Mela(Tribal Festival), Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed the government's commitment to the comprehensive development of tribal communities, emphasizing the need to remove regional disparities. He stressed that the focus would be on improving the living conditions, livelihoods, and addressing the basic issues faced by the tribal population.
The CM announced that significant actions would be taken soon to ensure the tribal communities benefit from the state's growth, extending development efforts beyond forests to bring prosperity. He urged tribal people to educate themselves, become more aware of their rights, and engage in the state's progress.
The Chief Minister highlighted the formation of development councils for both South and North Odisha, aimed at addressing regional inequality. These councils will work to ensure better representation and solutions for tribal communities.
Speaking further, the CM noted that tribal people have always played an essential role in the defense of the nation, citing the sacrifices of tribal freedom fighters like Surendra Sai, Laxman Nayak, Dharanidhar Nayak, and many others who fought for independence.
At the event, it was also announced that the 2026 Odisha Tribal Festival would run till February 5, with 1,140 participants, including 325 self-help group members, especially women, from tribal communities. Over 100 stalls showcasing tribal products have been set up, and tribal homes reflecting the communities' culture, architecture, and traditions have been built.
The CM acknowledged that tribal culture is integral to Odisha’s heritage and that their participation in economic development is crucial for the state’s overall prosperity. He assured that the government would continue working on various programs, such as the "Tribal Livelihood Mission," "Meritorious Student Scholarship Scheme," and efforts to reduce school dropout rates, to ensure the upliftment of tribal communities.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister released a research publication titled Adivasi, highlighting the achievements of tribal individuals in various fields. He emphasized that cultural heritage, traditions, and the pride of the tribal communities must be preserved and celebrated.
Minister of ST & SC Development, Nityananda Gande, echoed the Chief Minister’s words, emphasizing the importance of preserving tribal culture and heritage. He also spoke about various government schemes that aim to integrate tribal communities into the mainstream of economic development under the leadership of the Chief Minister.
In closing, the CM reiterated that one-fourth of Odisha's population comprises tribal people, and their development is crucial for the state's overall progress. He emphasized that the state will not prosper unless the tribal communities are uplifted and brought into the mainstream of development.
