President Droupadi Murmu interacted with members of the Siddi community, a primitive tribal group with African roots, in Gujarat’s Junagadh district yesterday, October 10. During the interaction, President Murmu encouraged the tribal people to pursue education as a means of empowerment and progress. She expressed happiness that the Siddi tribal community, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group, has achieved a literacy rate of over 72 per cent.

 

 

Highlighting the government’s commitment to tribal welfare, the President urged the community to stay informed about various development and welfare schemes initiated by the Central government. She encouraged them not only to benefit personally but also to help others in their villages and communities access these schemes.

 

 

President Murmu also praised the nature-friendly lifestyle of tribal communities, calling it a source of inspiration for sustainable living. She emphasised that the active participation of tribal brothers and sisters is vital in building a just and inclusive society that respects and preserves tribal culture and traditions. She said, ensuring equality, justice, and protection of tribal rights is essential to achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047. 

 

 

Earlier in the day, President Murmu offered prayers at the famous Somnath temple in Gir Somnath district. The President reached Gujarat on Thursday on a three-day visit to the state.