Raipur, December 30, 2025: President of India Droupadi Murmu today praised the work, skills, and self-reliance of tribal women associated with self-help groups from Jashpur district of Chhattisgarh at the inter-state cultural gathering ‘Kartik Jatra’ programme held in Gumla (Jharkhand).
Murmu specifically mentioned the efforts of the women associated with ‘Jashcraft’, stating that the jewelry and eco-friendly products they are creating are powerful examples of women’s empowerment.
President Murmu described the products made by the women of the self-help group of Kotanpani village, under the Jashpur Forest Division’s Forest Management Committee, as inspiring symbols of tribal creativity, self-reliance, and cultural preservation.
She said that such efforts not only increase livelihood opportunities but also give a new identity to traditional art and handicrafts.
Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai said that the appreciation of the skills and self-reliance of the tribal women of Jashpur, especially the women associated with ‘Jashcraft’, is a matter of pride for the entire Chhattisgarh.
Sai said that the jewelry and eco-friendly products prepared by the women of the self-help group of Kotanpani village are living symbols of our rich cultural heritage and the hard work and creativity of women.
The Chief Minister said that this affectionate blessing and encouragement from the President will further strengthen the confidence of the tribal women, the resolve for a self-reliant India, and the spirit of “Vocal for Local”.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu on behalf of all the tribal women of Jashpur.
During the programme, an exhibition of tribal handicrafts, traditional folk art, and products of self-help groups was also a major attraction. The Chhattisgarh delegation showcased the unique craft traditions and local products of Jashpur district, giving a strong message of tribal empowerment.
President Murmu said that it is extremely important to connect the youth and future generations with the traditions of tribal communities. While preserving their tribal heritage and identity, our youth should move rapidly forward on the path of modern development.
He expressed confidence that all members of the tribal community will continue to progress while cherishing their heritage.
Chief Minister Sai said that it is a great honour that the inter-state folk cultural gathering – Kartik Yatra – has been organized in Manjhatoli (Jharkhand). This event is not only a tribute to cultural heritage but also a bridge connecting the tribal community.
He said that participating in this historic programme is a matter of both pride and faith for him.
Sai said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the entire country celebrates the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda on November 15th as Tribal Pride Day. Birsa Munda was not only a great freedom fighter but also a symbol of the protection of forests, water, and land. His inspiration has strengthened the sense of self-respect in the tribal community.
The Chief Minister said that public leaders like Pankajraj Saheb and Kartik Oraon have also made significant contributions to education, social unity, and the preservation of tribal identity.
In his address, Sai said that there was a time when Naxalism had blocked the path of development in the Bastar region. Basic facilities like roads, electricity, water, health, and education could not reach there, but due to the strong leadership and clear policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the situation is now changing.
Development work is progressing rapidly in Bastar, the security system has been strengthened, and governance is reaching every village, he added.
Sai said that Naxalism is now breathing its last. More than 400 villages have been freed from Naxal influence, and new hope has been kindled in the lives of the people. Today, roads, electricity, water, rations, medical facilities, and educational opportunities are available in those areas. The people of Bastar had long desired peace and development, and now their dream seems to be coming true.
He said that the state government is also continuously striving to promote tourism, which will create new employment opportunities for local youth.
The Chief Minister said that it is also a matter of great joy that the formation of states like Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh was made possible under the visionary leadership of former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee.
Today, the people of these states are moving forward on the path of rapid progress and establishing their distinct identity, he said.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that this cultural confluence of the three states will continue to spread the message of peace, progress, and prosperity, and that the chapter of decisive victory over Naxalism will be completed in the times to come.
