Mamata flags off World Tribal Day festivities in Jhargram, new projects
The Statesman | 9 August 2025
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday inaugurated the World Tribal Day celebrations at the Jhargram Stadium with a spirited appeal for unity, social justice, and women’s empowerment—while using the occasion to launch fresh attacks on the BJP-led Centre over citizenship issues and bureaucratic overreach.
With tribal dancers from Lodha, Sabar, Santal, Munda and Bhumij communities performing to the beat of traditional drums, Miss Banerjee took to the stage not only as the state’s political leader, but in her words, “as one among the people.” Dressed simply and moving to the tribal rhythms, she picked up the madal herself, joined in the dance, and reiterated her government’s commitment to the welfare of marginalised communities.
“Let our girls stand on their own feet,” the chief minister said, recounting a recent interaction with a tribal girl who shared concerns about family pressure to marry early. “There is no need to rush into marriage. Once they reach Class XI, they will receive smartphones through the Taruner Swapna scheme to help their studies.”
The gathering—one of the largest ever for such an occasion in Jhargram—was marked by the launch and foundation-stone laying of a slew of development projects. Miss Banerjee also personally handed over scheme benefits to several beneficiaries and cradled a local child in a symbolic gesture of maternal care. “We have 94 welfare schemes operational in Bengal. No other country or state can match that,” she claimed.
In an emotional yet politically charged speech, the chief minister questioned the state of the nation ahead of Independence Day. “15 August is coming,” she said, “but we must ask ourselves—are we truly independent? Shouldn’t freedom also mean freedom from discrimination?”
Citing the internationally acclaimed Kanyashree scheme—set to be celebrated on 14 August—Miss Banerjee reminded the audience that the initiative had earned UN recognition for transforming the lives of girls in West Bengal. “When I launched Kanyashree, I was thinking of daughters like those here in Jhargram,” she said. “It is not just a scheme; it is a social revolution.”
The inauguration marked the beginning of a four-day (7-10 August) festival celebrating tribal heritage across the state. The chief minister’s presence, once again, elevated the event beyond ceremonial observance. Minister Birbaha Hansda, herself from a tribal background, was present alongside Miss Banerjee, reinforcing the government’s attempt to position itself as both representative and protector of Bengal’s indigenous communities.