Janajatiya Gaurav Diwas Celebrated with Fervor in Haflong

Haflong, November 16: Haflong joined the rest of the nation in celebrating Janajatiya Gaurav Diwas, marking the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda with great enthusiasm. Representatives from all indigenous tribal communities of Dima Hasao district participated in the event, underscoring the unity and diversity of the region.

The occasion was graced by Assam Minister for Sports and Youth Welfare Nandita Gorlosa, North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC) Chairman Mohet Hojai, Executive Member Donphainon Thaosen, other Council Members and Executive Members, Principal Secretary (i/c) Partha Sarathi Jahari, District Commissioner Munindra Nath Ngatey, and Padmashree Jaynacharan Bathari.

A floral tribute was offered in memory of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, acknowledging his remarkable contributions in protecting the honour and rights of the motherland. The gathering also paid respects to Veer Sambudhan Phonglo, the revered national freedom fighter from the district. Across the nation, tributes poured in for Birsa Munda, affectionately known as “Dharti Aaba,” whose legacy continues to inspire tribal communities and the country as a whole.

The programme featured vibrant traditional performances and exhibitions, showcasing the rich tribal heritage of Dima Hasao. Freedom fighters such as Chengzapou Doungel, Rani Gaidinliu, Jaya Thaosen, and Haipou Jadonang were fondly remembered. Local tribal achievers excelling in various fields were honored during the event.

Assam Minister Nandita Gorlosa, addressing the occasion, saluted the contributions of tribal communities in nation-building and highlighted the sacrifices of leaders like Bhagwan Birsa Munda in the struggle for freedom. She expressed her gratitude to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma for their commitment to tribal welfare and inclusive development, reflecting the unity and pride that define the day.

NCHAC Chairman Mohet Hojai, as chief guest, spoke at length about the government’s efforts to strengthen a unified India. He emphasized that such programmes serve as overdue recognition of freedom fighters and that the yearlong celebration of Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s 150th birth anniversary is a genuine tribute to his enduring legacy.

Executive Member Donphainon Thaosen highlighted Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s greatness, noting the vital role tribal communities play in shaping India’s cultural diversity and contributing to its development. He stressed that the birth anniversary celebrations affirm the importance of tribal groups in preserving India’s heritage and driving its progress.

As a significant part of the event, the foundation stone for the “Eklavya Model Residential School” was laid by CEM Debolal Gorlosa at Larbo under Council Hamri Constituency. The central inauguration and launch of other EMRS projects were conducted nationally by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with live streaming of the central programme reaching states across the country, including Dima Hasao.