Did J&K L-G Sinha Inaugurate a National Tribal Festival in Gurez?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Significant emphasis on tribal heritage preservation.
- Launch of community radio station for youth engagement.
- Recognition of Dard-Shina community's cultural contributions.
- Government's commitment to uplift tribal populations.
- Gurez as an emerging tourist hotspot.
Srinagar, Aug 6 (NationPress) The Lieutenant Governor (L-G) of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, emphasized the importance of inspiring the youth to uphold and honor the values, knowledge, and traditions of tribal communities.
After inaugurating the National Tribal Festival in the border town of Gurez, located in the Bandipora district, the L-G took to the social media platform X to share, "I inaugurated the National Tribal Festival at Gurez. It celebrates the culture and traditions of the Dard-Shina tribal community."
He also announced the launch of a community radio station aimed at motivating the younger generation to protect and cherish the values, knowledge, and traditions of their community.
This two-day festival showcases the rich culture and heritage of the Dard-Shina tribal community.
Speaking virtually, L-G Sinha commended the significant contributions made by the tribal community towards the country's cultural diversity.
He also paid homage to the tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda.
"I view the Dard-Shina tribal community as one of India's most invaluable treasures, inspiring individuals to uphold their traditions and rituals," he stated.
"Their profound connection to nature shapes a unique culture and set of values, offering humanity a vital lesson about living sustainably in harmony with the environment."
"Under the stewardship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are committed to preserving the priceless tribal culture and restoring their ancient glory and dignity," the L-G remarked.
He highlighted that the Central Government has consistently focused on uplifting the tribal community and improving their living conditions.
"The long-standing injustices faced by tribals came to an end in August 2019. Numerous transformative initiatives have improved the socio-economic status of our tribal brothers and sisters. For the first time since 1947, Gurez was connected to the grid power in 2023," said L-G Sinha.
On this occasion, he dedicated the Shina Gilgit 88.8 FM Radio Station to the Dard-Shina tribal community.
He mentioned that this radio station would motivate the youth to value and preserve their community's knowledge and traditions.
He proposed that the new radio station should feature a dedicated weekly program that highlights the rich history of the tribal community.
"Gurez has been developed and established as a beloved offbeat tourist destination in the country. Today, it ranks among the top travel destinations, revered for its serene landscapes and charming villages," he added.
He urged that the community radio programs should reflect the community's natural, artistic, and cultural heritage.
Furthermore, he expressed appreciation for the Indian Army, the Tribal Affairs Department, district administration, and various voluntary organizations for their efforts in promoting the invaluable cultural heritage of the Dard-Shina community.
Performances by artists from Jammu and Kashmir and other states celebrating "Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat" received commendation from L-G Sinha.
Members of the tribal community were also recognized for their contributions to society and the Indian Army.
Attending the inaugural ceremony were Javed Ahmed Rana, Minister for Tribal Affairs, Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology and Environment; Nazir Ahmad Khan, Member of the Legislative Assembly from Gurez; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Kashmir Divisional Commissioner; Prasanna Ramaswamy G, Secretary of the Tribal Affairs Department; Manzoor Ahmad Qadri, Deputy Commissioner of Bandipora; senior officials from security forces, civil and police administration, along with a large number of attendees from various walks of life.