Syllabus: GS: I – Indian Society 

Why in the News?

India observes Janjatiya Gaurav Divas every year on 15 November, a day dedicated to honouring the courage, cultural heritage, and sacrifices of the country’s tribal communities. The day has gained national attention for its role in strengthening recognition of tribal contributions and bringing their long-marginalised histories into the mainstream discourse.

What Is Janjatiya Gaurav Divas?

• It was established on 15 November 2021 as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
• Janjatiya Gaurav Divas was instituted through a Union Cabinet decision to formally acknowledge the pivotal role played by tribal communities in India’s civilisational journey and freedom struggle. 
• The choice of the date is profoundly symbolic, as it marks the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, one of India’s most revered tribal freedom fighters.
• The day aims to celebrate the cultural distinctiveness of tribal groups, highlight their struggles against colonial exploitation, and remind the nation that India’s freedom story is incomplete without recognising the resistance that emerged from its forests, hills, and remote settlements.

Why Is This Day Historically Important?

• The observation of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas helps correct historical imbalances by highlighting tribal uprisings that predated many mainstream political movements. 
• Rebellions such as the Santhal Rebellion (1855–56) led by Sidhu and Kanhu Murmu, the Kol Uprising, the Bhumij Revolt, and the Khonda Resistance were not isolated protests but powerful expressions of cultural survival, land protection, and resistance against exploitation.
• By officially recognising these struggles, the government has restored dignity to chapters of history that had long remained overshadowed by more dominant political narratives.
• By celebrating this day, India pays tribute to leaders like Birsa Munda, Sidhu–Kanhu, Alluri Sitarama Raju, Rani Gaidinliu, Tantia Bhil, Veer Gundadhur, and Veer Narayan Singh.

Birsa Munda: The Soul of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas

• Born on 15 November 1875 in Ulihatu, Birsa Munda lived only 25 years, yet his ideas and actions left an extraordinary mark on India’s tribal consciousness. 
• His movement, known as Ulgulan or “The Great Tumult,” was simultaneously a social reform initiative and a political rebellion. 
• Birsa challenged the oppressive zamindari system, resisted colonial forest laws that deprived indigenous communities of their ancestral lands, and fought against conversion campaigns that threatened tribal cultural identity.
• Revered as Dharti Aaba (Father of the Earth), Birsa articulated a vision where dignity, ancestral rights, and spiritual purity formed the foundation of a just society. 
• His teachings continue to resonate today, particularly in debates around environmental justice, land ownership, and sustainable development.

Cultural Significance: A Festival of Tribal Identity and Pride

• Since its inception, Janjatiya Gaurav Divas has evolved into a vibrant platform celebrating the cultural diversity of India’s tribal communities. 
• States with significant tribal populations — such as Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and the northeastern region — organise colourful festivals, exhibitions, academic seminars, and public awareness campaigns.
• The Ministry of Tribal Affairs conducts the Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada, a series of week-long events that showcase tribal music, dance, languages, textiles, handicrafts, and literature. 

These celebrations serve not just as cultural showcases but also as educational opportunities where younger generations are introduced to the depth, richness, and wisdom embedded in tribal worldviews.

Developmental Significance: From Celebration to Empowerment

• The day serves as a reminder that honouring tribal leaders requires more than symbolic gestures; it demands sustained efforts to improve the lives of tribal communities. 
• With this intent, initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan, launched on 15 November 2023, aim to address gaps in housing, education, healthcare, livelihoods, and infrastructure in tribal-dominated districts.
• The government also emphasises the preservation of tribal languages, support for traditional crafts and forest-based livelihoods, and protection of land rights — recognising that true empowerment lies in ensuring social justice, economic opportunity, and cultural autonomy.

Important Terms Explained

• Ulgulan: Birsa Munda’s movement asserting both cultural revival and political resistance.
• Indigenous Communities: Populations with deep ancestral ties to land, culture, and ecological practices.
• Forest Rights: Legal entitlement of tribal communities over forest land and forest produce (Forest Rights Act, 2006).
• Cultural Autonomy: A community’s right to preserve and promote its own traditions, beliefs, and languages.
• Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav: India’s nationwide celebration of 75 years of independence.
• Fifth Schedule Areas: Tribal-majority regions with special constitutional protections.

Exam Hook: Key Takeaways 

• Janjatiya Gaurav Divas recognises tribal resistance and cultural heritage, centred on Birsa Munda’s legacy.
• It highlights tribal uprisings such as the Santhal, Kol, Bhumij, and Khonda rebellions.
• It is part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (2021) and is linked with welfare initiatives like PM Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan.
• The day promotes cultural visibility, political recognition, and development of tribal communities.

Mains Question

“Discuss the historical, cultural, and contemporary significance of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas. How does it contribute to recognition, justice, and empowerment of tribal communities in India?”

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