DARJEELING (West Bengal, India): Indian President Droupadi Murmu has urged the country’s tribal community to pursue education, health and economic advancement while remaining firmly connected to their cultural roots and traditional values.
Addressing the 9th International Santal Conference in Darjeeling on Saturday, Murmu said education is essential for strengthening tribal communities and enabling them to participate more effectively in the country’s growth. She emphasized that learning and knowledge can help tribal people overcome barriers and contribute to the progress of their communities. At the same time, she stressed the importance of preserving indigenous traditions, languages and customs that form the foundation of tribal identity.
Murmu said tribal communities possess a rich cultural heritage and deep knowledge systems developed over generations through their close relationship with nature and their environment. She noted that young people should take pride in this heritage and ensure that modernization and development do not lead to the erosion of traditional values. She said a balanced approach combining education, modern skills and cultural preservation can empower tribal communities while maintaining their unique identity.
Highlighting the need for greater awareness and participation, the President encouraged educated youth from tribal backgrounds to work for the welfare of their villages.
Murmu acknowledged the significant contributions of tribal communities to India’s cultural diversity and national development. She observed that indigenous societies have long demonstrated sustainable ways of living and strong community values, which can serve as an example for broader society. Protecting these traditions while advancing economically, she said, was important for ensuring inclusive progress.
The President said that the year 2003 will always be remembered in the history of the Santali community. That year, the Santali language was included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India. Last year, the Constitution of India, written in the Santali language in the Ol Chiki script, was released.
The President said that empowering tribal youth through knowledge and skills will strengthen communities and enable them to shape their own future. However, she said such progress should always be guided by respect for indigenous identity and traditions, ensuring that development strengthens rather than weakens the cultural foundations of tribal life.
India is home to more than 700 recognized tribal groups that constitute over 8 percent of the country’s population. Murmu herself is the first tribal woman to serve as President of India.
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