Hyderabad, August 9: Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Sunday extended greetings to indigenous and tribal communities on the occasion of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, highlighting their rich heritage, contribution to environmental conservation and rights.

Governor Shukla conveyed his warm wishes to all Adivasi communities and described their culture, traditions and traditional knowledge as an invaluable part of India’s heritage.

He said indigenous communities have for generations played a crucial role in protecting forests, water resources, biodiversity and nature. The Governor called for greater respect for their rights, dignity, identity and traditional way of life, along with 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.

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy also extended his greetings, noting that indigenous communities consider nature sacred, forests their mother, and have preserved their culture and traditions across generations.

He said the knowledge, collective way of life and conservation practices of indigenous communities, developed over generations, offer important lessons for humanity. He called for collective efforts to protect their rights, culture and dignity while ensuring their welfare and development.

Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K.T. Rama Rao also paid tribute to indigenous communities, describing them as guardians of nature and symbols of India’s diverse cultural traditions.

Referring to tribal leader Kumram Bheem and his slogan of “Jal, Jungle, Zameen”, Rama Rao said Adivasis’ deep connection with forests, trees, animals and nature reflected their courage and commitment to protecting their rights.

Rama Rao also highlighted initiatives undertaken by the previous BRS government for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes, including a resolution to increase ST reservations from 6 per cent to 10 per cent and the creation of new tribal habitations and village panchayats.

He said the BRS government constructed the Kumram Bheem Adivasi Bhavan in Hyderabad’s Banjara Hills and developed a memorial park at Jodeghat after naming Asifabad district after the tribal freedom fighter.

Rama Rao further cited initiatives such as providing drinking water to tribal habitations, expanding ST gurukuls and colleges, offering Ambedkar Overseas Scholarships and providing training to tribal youth to become entrepreneurs under the CMSTEI scheme.