Jagdalpur, Feb 7 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu officially commenced the Bastar Pandum 2026, a lively three-day festival celebrating tribal culture, in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, on Saturday. This event highlights the region's vibrant heritage while marking a significant transition from years of Maoist violence to a period of peace and development.

The festival took place at the historic Lalbagh Ground, exhibiting the unique art, traditions, and harmonious lifestyles of Bastar's tribal communities.

In her speech, the President characterized the Pandum as a joyous event interwoven into the very fabric of life in this fertile region.

“When farmers plant seeds in this soil, it is Pandum. When the mango season comes, it is Pandum. The locals of Bastar cherish every moment of life,” she stated, suggesting that others across the nation could find motivation in this joyful and nature-centric lifestyle.

President Murmu recognized the deep allure of Bastar's traditions and culture but also acknowledged the severe repercussions of four decades of Maoist insurgency.

“The youth, tribal members, and Dalit brethren faced immense suffering due to an atmosphere filled with insecurity, fear, and distrust,” she remarked.

However, she credited the decisive strategies implemented by the Union government against Maoist activities for gradually eliminating this threat, allowing many individuals linked to the movement to renounce violence and reintegrate into mainstream society.

The President pointed out the increasing instances of Maoist surrenders in Chhattisgarh, highlighting government initiatives designed to support rehabilitated individuals in leading normal, dignified lives through welfare programs.

She commended the state government's Niyad Nellanar Yojana for empowering local communities and noted observable signs of revival: electricity, roads, and water supply reaching remote areas; the reopening of long-closed schools; and children returning to educational institutions.

“This paints a very encouraging picture that brings joy to all citizens,” she commented.

In her address, President Murmu applauded those who have forsaken violence, urging them to have complete faith in the Constitution and democracy, work diligently, and resist any efforts to derail their journey towards peace.

She emphasized that the Union government prioritizes the upliftment of the impoverished, marginalized, and backward classes through initiatives like PM-JANMAN Yojana and Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, which aim to deliver development benefits directly to the most disadvantaged tribal regions.

Education was a pivotal theme in her address.

The President described it as essential for individual and societal advancement, highlighting the establishment of Eklavya Model Residential Schools in tribal areas to provide quality educational opportunities.

She urged parents and guardians to prioritize their children's education, asserting that this would illuminate the future of Chhattisgarh and India.

President Murmu also honored enduring traditions, referencing Bastar Dussehra dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari as a distinctive symbol of tribal culture and unity.

She encouraged the pursuit of development while cherishing heritage.

Recognizing Bastar's wealth of natural resources and the industrious nature of its inhabitants, particularly the youth, the President urged them to utilize Central and state welfare schemes for personal and regional growth, contributing to a Viksit Bharat.

The event was attended by Governor Ramen Deka, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, and other notable figures.