Government Committed to Preserving Tribal Culture, Traditions and Food Heritage
Inauguration of Wild Vegetables and Traditional Food Festival at Ghodegaon
Pune, November 2026 : Through the celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas on the occasion of the 151st birth anniversary of Krantisurya Bhagwan Birsa Munda, important work is being undertaken to pass on the glorious history, culture, traditions and legacy of self-respect of the tribal community to future generations. The government is committed to preserving the cultural heritage of the tribal community along with its social, economic and educational development, stated Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister of Pune district Sunetra Pawar.
Deputy Chief Minister Pawar participated virtually in the programme organised by the Integrated Tribal Development Project, Ghodegaon, on the occasion of the 151st birth anniversary of Krantisurya Bhagwan Birsa Munda and Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas. She inaugurated the Tribal Wild Vegetables and Traditional Food Festival. MLA Sharad Sonawane, MLA Babaji Kale, Khed Panchayat Samiti Chairperson Gauritai Murhe, Vice-Chairperson Dilip Dube, Advocate Kiran Gabhale, members of the Tribal Advisory Committee and Ganesh Iwnate, Project Officer of the Integrated Tribal Development Project, Ghodegaon, along with other dignitaries, were present.
Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s Struggle Is Inspiring
Dharti Aaba Bhagwan Birsa Munda lived for only 25 years; however, he showed the entire world how great a contribution could be made in such a short life. Challenging British rule, the moneylending system and the landlord system, he led the historic ‘Ulgulan’. This was not merely an uprising against the British, but a powerful voice raised for one's rights, land, existence and self-respect. Passing on the legacy of his struggle and sacrifice to future generations is the collective responsibility of all of us, she said.
The contribution of tribal revolutionaries to the making of Maharashtra and the freedom struggle is extremely important. The struggle launched by the Bhil community of Khandesh and Satpuda against British oppression, the uprising led by the Mahadev Koli community under the leadership of Raghoji Bhangre and Ramji Bhangre, and the fight put up by Veer Baburao Shedmake against the British by raising an army of Gond warriors form part of Maharashtra's glorious history. She paid tribute to all these known and unknown revolutionaries who courageously stood against injustice.
Tribal Cultural Heritage to Be Presented Before the Country
Various programmes have been organised across the state throughout the week on the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas. Through these programmes, the folk dances, folk music, handicrafts, traditional attire and lifestyle of the tribal community will be presented before the entire country. She expressed confidence that these initiatives would play an important role in passing on the rich cultural heritage preserved by ancestors to future generations.
She also noted that through her work in agriculture, the environment and the social sector, she had closely experienced the importance of a lifestyle connected with nature. The tribal community, which lives in close connection with water, land and forests, has been a true source of inspiration for love and concern for the environment.
Development to Reach the Last Tribal Settlement
Through the government led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, efforts are underway to take development to every tribal settlement in the state. The inclusive philosophy of Shivaji Maharaj, Shahu Maharaj, Mahatma Phule and Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, which believes in taking everyone along and considering the last person in society, is Maharashtra's identity. The teaching of late Yashwantrao Chavan was that the benefits of development should reach every village, hamlet and settlement. Late Ajitdada also worked throughout his life with the same philosophy. She said that this legacy was being carried forward.
Various schemes are being implemented for the social, economic and educational development of the tribal community through the Integrated Tribal Development Project, Ghodegaon. During the programme, initiatives such as distribution of cheques to beneficiaries of various schemes, felicitation of employees who received the Tribal Sevak Award and organisation of the Pardhi gathering were held. She said that these initiatives were commendable and would provide momentum to the development of the tribal community.
Traditional Food Culture to Get Market Access
The Wild Vegetables and Traditional Food Festival, which introduces people to tribal culture, is important from the perspective of health and nutritious food. Traditional wild vegetables and food items also have special significance from the perspective of Ayurveda. Deputy Chief Minister Pawar said that such festivals would not only help preserve and promote traditional food culture but also provide market access to these products and encourage local producers.
As the Guardian Minister of Pune district, the government will always remain committed to developing education, healthcare, roads and other basic facilities in tribal areas. She assured that the government is making efforts for the overall development of all tribal communities, including the Pardhi community.
Congratulating the officers and employees of the Integrated Tribal Development Project, Ghodegaon, for organising the programme, she appreciated the participating artists and members of the tribal community. She urged everyone to resolve to carry forward the ideals of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and the legacy of his struggle. She expressed confidence that this programme would help take the pride of tribal culture to every corner.
