Early Times Report
Kargil, Nov 15: The Tribal Research Institute (TRI), Ladakh, in collaboration with the Kargil Campus, University of Ladakh, observed Janjatiya Gaurav Divas with great enthusiasm on Sunday, 15 November 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Kargil Campus. The programme commemorated the life, ideals and enduring legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, one of India’s most revered tribal leaders and freedom fighters. It brought together administrative officers, academicians, artists, students, research scholars and members of the local community.
Janjatiya Gaurav Divas is observed every year on 15 November, the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. The day honours the invaluable contributions of tribal communities to the nation’s history, culture, heritage and freedom struggle. It is also an occasion to reflect on the rich traditions, indigenous knowledge systems and distinct identity of India’s tribal communities, including those of Ladakh.
Shri Imteaz Kacho, Deputy Commissioner, Sankoo District, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and was accorded a warm reception on his arrival at the campus.
The programme commenced with the National Anthem. This was followed by the principal event of the day, the installation and unveiling of the statue of Bhagwan Birsa Munda at the Kargil Campus.
The statue stands as a lasting tribute to his sacrifices and as a source of inspiration for students and future generations. After the unveiling, the Chief Guest, faculty members, students and other guests offered floral tributes and paid homage to the great tribal leader.
Dr. Mehboob Ali, In-charge Administration, Kargil Campus, University of Ladakh, then delivered the welcome address. He extended a warm welcome to the Chief Guest, dignitaries, faculty members, students and guests. He expressed his sincere gratitude to the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, University of Ladakh, for his constant guidance, encouragement and support in organising the programme. He also thanked TRI Ladakh for collaborating with the University to commemorate the occasion.
He noted that the statue installed on the campus would continually remind students of the values of courage, self-respect and service to society that Bhagwan Birsa Munda represented.
Padma then delivered a special presentation on the life, struggle and contributions of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
The presentation traced his journey as a freedom fighter who resisted colonial oppression, a social reformer who worked for the upliftment of his people, and a protector of tribal identity and of Jal, Jangal, Zameen (water, forest and land). It gave the audience, particularly the students, a deeper understanding of the historical importance of his movement and its continuing relevance today.
Team Ranthak presented cultural and theatrical performances depicting tribal heritage, the struggles of tribal communities and the legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, which were widely appreciated by the audience. Team Stringmo then gave a presentation on the awareness and outreach programmes it has conducted in various schools across Ladakh, highlighting its efforts to engage young students with tribal history and culture. A felicitation ceremony was then held to honour the Deputy Commissioner, Sankoo; Team Ranthak; Team Stringmo; and the In-charge Administration, Kargil Campus, in recognition of their valuable contributions and support towards the successful organisation of the programme. |
