Ranchi, March 28 (NationPress) On Saturday, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan made a significant visit to Ulihatu, the birthplace of the revered tribal leader Birsa Munda, located in Jharkhand's Khunti district. He paid respects to the legendary figure by offering floral tributes at his statue and later engaged with Munda's descendants and family members.

The Vice President described the encounter as profoundly emotional, emphasizing that Birsa Munda’s legacy continues to motivate the youth across the nation and that his sacrifices were pivotal in steering India’s freedom movement. This visit marked Radhakrishnan's first trip to the honored birthplace of ‘Dharti Aaba’ since he took office.

Reflecting on his previous visit to Ulihatu during his time as Jharkhand Governor, he characterized the experience as deeply impactful and reiterated that Birsa Munda’s legacy would serve as a guiding force for the generations to come.

He acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision, made in 2021, to commemorate November 15, Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary, as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, recognizing it as a significant step towards enhancing national appreciation for tribal heritage.

Discussing tribal welfare initiatives, the Vice President highlighted the PM-JANMAN scheme, which focuses on the protection and empowerment of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), showcasing the government's commitment to inclusive development.

He emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions and struggles of tribal freedom fighters during the ‘Amrit Kaal’, asserting that it reflects the realization of the rights and dignity for which Birsa Munda valiantly fought.

During his visit, the Vice President was warmly welcomed by local villagers with a traditional ‘Johar’ greeting. Enthusiastic crowds gathered in Ulihatu and surrounding areas to extend their greetings.

Extensive security measures were implemented throughout the visit, with notable attendees including Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh, Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, and state minister Irfan Ansari.

In just 25 years of life, Birsa Munda emerged as a symbol of the people's resistance against British colonial exploitation. As the British and local landlords oppressed tribal communities, seizing their lands and perpetrating injustices, Munda took a stand against this social and economic injustice, leading the fight for their rights.

Known affectionately as “Dharti Aba” (“Father of the Earth”), Bhagwan Birsa orchestrated the “Ulgulan” or Munda Rebellion against British tyranny in the late 1890s.