Raipur. (19:03): In February, a general knowledge competition celebrating the stories of tribal heroes was held in various colleges across the city. Today, Cabinet Minister of the Chhattisgarh Government, Kedar Kashyap, distributed prizes to the winners of this competition. The program commenced with the lighting of lamps and worship of Bharat Mata. The first prize, a laptop, was awarded to Mona Sahu from Pandit Ravi Shankar Shukla University, the second prize went to Dev Charan Nagesh from Science College, and the third prize was won by Manas Ranjan Haiburu from NIT.
After extending a warm welcome to all the guests, Rajeev Sharma, Secretary of the Raipur Metropolitan, provided an overview and introduction of the program. Following this, Rajeev Prakash, the Director of IIT Bhilai, highlighted around 50 projects focusing on various aspects of tribal life conducted by the institution. He emphasized the longstanding pride of the tribal community, dating back to pre-independence times.
Cabinet Minister Kedar Kashyap underscored the lack of specific historical documentation on tribal lifestyle, civilization, and culture, suggesting that firsthand experiences in tribal areas provide genuine insights. Former IAS Neelkanth Tekam reflected on the simplicity and nature of the tribal community, noting historical attempts by different groups to influence them and current government efforts to raise awareness and provide assistance.
The event featured an exhibition showcasing prominent tribal heroes from Chhattisgarh and India, alongside cultural performances by students from Gracious College, Abhanpur, and Government Dental College, Raipur. Dr. Anurag Jain expressed gratitude in the vote of thanks.
Honorable Umesh Kashyap presided over the program, accompanied by guest speakers. Ramnath Kashyap served as the keynote speaker, elaborating on the history and present circumstances of forest-dwelling communities. The event was attended by Raipur Metropolitan President Ravi Goyal, Praveen Maheshwari, professors from various colleges, participating students, and officials from cities and states associated with All India Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram.
