ICAR-MGIFRI, Motihari Inaugurates Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada–2026 to Commemorate the 151st Birth Anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda

3 November 2026, Motihari

ICAR–Mahatma Gandhi Integrated Farming Research Institute, Motihari, Bihar, inaugurated Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwada–2026 on 3 November to commemorate the 151st birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the legendary tribal freedom fighter revered as Dharti Aba. The fortnight-long observance, scheduled from 1 to 15 November 2026, aims to recognise the contributions of tribal communities to India's freedom struggle, cultural heritage, indigenous knowledge systems, sustainable agriculture and national development.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Raghavendra Singh, Director, ICAR-MGIFRI, highlighted the significant contributions of Bhagwan Birsa Munda towards safeguarding tribal identity, traditional land rights and social justice. He emphasised that the observance provides an opportunity to honour the sacrifices of tribal freedom fighters and strengthen institutional efforts towards the inclusive development of tribal communities. He encouraged scientists and staff to promote agricultural technologies, sustainable livelihood opportunities and capacity-building initiatives for the socio-economic empowerment of tribal farmers.

The Senior Administrative Officer (SAO) underscored the importance of collective institutional participation in the fortnight-long observance. He called upon all categories of staff to actively contribute to the planned activities and stressed the need for effective coordination, timely implementation and systematic documentation of programmes.

A presentation was delivered on the life, struggles and contributions of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. It highlighted his leadership of the historic Ulgulan Movement (1899–1900), resistance against colonial exploitation and efforts to safeguard tribal land rights. The significance of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, observed annually on 15 November, was also explained, along with the contributions of tribal communities to biodiversity conservation, traditional agriculture, indigenous seed systems and natural resource management.

During the programme, a 15-day institutional action plan, from 1 to 15 November 2026, was outlined in accordance with ICAR guidelines. The planned activities include awareness programmes on tribal history and cultural heritage, capacity-building and skill-development sessions, demonstrations of improved agricultural technologies, promotion of indigenous crops and traditional seed conservation, awareness of government welfare schemes, soil and water conservation initiatives, agricultural entrepreneurship, student engagement, field visits and recognition of successful initiatives. Emphasis was also laid on ensuring active participation of Scheduled Tribe beneficiaries and systematic documentation and reporting of programme outcomes.

The inaugural programme witnessed the participation of scientists, technical personnel, administrative officials and contractual staff of ICAR-MGIFRI. The participants reaffirmed their commitment to preserving tribal heritage, promoting scientific awareness and advancing inclusive and sustainable agricultural development.

The programme concluded with a collective resolve to implement the planned activities effectively and strengthen the institute's efforts towards the sustainable development and empowerment of tribal communities, in keeping with the ideals and legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

(Source: ICAR–Mahatma Gandhi Integrated Farming Research Institute, Motihari, Bihar)