• In 2021, the Central Government declared 15^th November, the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, as National Tribal Pride Day.
• The objective is to honor the contributions of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and other tribal freedom fighters.
• Acknowledge their traditions and proud history.
• This day serves as an important opportunity to:
• Remember the struggles of the tribal society.
• Recognize their significant contributions.
• Indian Constitution regarding the protection of Scheduled Tribes:
  • Article 46 provides for the promotion of the educational and economic interests of Scheduled Tribes and safeguards them against social injustice and all forms of exploitation.
  • Article 243: Includes provisions for the reservation of seats for Scheduled Tribes in Panchayats.
  • Article 330: Provides for the reservation of seats for Scheduled Tribes in the Lok Sabha.
  • Article 337: Provides for the reservation of seats for Scheduled Tribes in the State Legislatures.
  • Article 342: According to this provision, the President, after consulting the Governor of the respective state (in the case of a state), may list the communities that will be deemed Scheduled Tribes for that purpose through a public notification. However, Scheduled Tribes are not explicitly defined in the Constitution.
  • Article 350: Provides the right to education in one’s mother tongue and the preservation of script and culture.
  • Article 371: Includes special provisions related to the northeastern states and Sikkim.

About Bhagwan Birsa Munda

• Born: 15^th November 1875, in Ulihatu village, Jharkhand, in a simple Munda family.
• Early Struggles: Faced economic hardships from a young age; experienced social inequality and oppression.
• Role in Freedom Struggle:
  • Led the Ulgulan (tribal rebellion) against British colonial rule.
  • Fought against British-imposed land policies, forced conversions, and laws interfering with tribal traditions.
• Social Reformer:
  • Spread awareness against superstitions, caste discrimination, alcoholism, and other social evils within tribal society.
  • Emphasized the importance of education and unity among his followers.
• Religious Movement: Initiated the Birsite movement, promoting purity, simplicity, and adherence to truth.
• Contribution to Indian Independence:
  • His leadership and sacrifice gave new direction to the Indian freedom struggle.
  • Inspired other tribal communities to actively participate in the freedom movement.