Jammu, Nov 15 (KNS): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday paid tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda and other tribal freedom fighters on the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas and extended greetings to the people of Jharkhand on the state's Foundation Day.

Addressing a gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said the occasion was an opportunity to remember the contributions of tribal leaders who fought against British colonial rule to protect the identity, culture and rights of their communities.

He said Bhagwan Birsa Munda's struggle for justice, self-respect and empowerment continued to inspire generations.

The Lieutenant Governor said the observance of November 15 as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas reflected the nation's recognition of the role played by tribal communities in India's freedom struggle and the preservation of its cultural heritage.

Sinha also recalled the contribution of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in the creation of Jharkhand as a separate state, saying the decision marked an important chapter in its development.

Referring to Jharkhand's history, he remembered tribal leaders, including Baba Tilka Manjhi, the leaders of the Santhal Rebellion and Bhagwan Birsa Munda, for their struggles against colonial rule.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The Lieutenant Governor said Jharkhand's identity was closely connected with its forests, rivers, mountains, languages and cultural traditions.

He said the relationship between tribal communities and nature offered important lessons at a time when climate change had become a major global concern.

Sinha also stressed the need to preserve regional languages, folk traditions and cultural practices, saying they formed an important part of the identity and history of communities.

Highlighting Jharkhand's contribution to India's industrial development, energy sector and infrastructure, the Lieutenant Governor called upon citizens to uphold the constitutional values of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.

He urged people to work collectively towards inclusive development, self-reliance and national unity.

The Lieutenant Governor expressed hope that the ideals and contributions of Bhagwan Birsa Munda would continue to guide future generations. (KNS)