President Murmu attends 9th International Santal Conference

Droupadi Murmu, the President of India, on Saturday attended and addressed the International Santal Conference in Darjeeling, highlighting the rich cultural heritage and historic contributions of the Santal community.

Speaking at the 9th edition of the conference, the President said the Santal community takes pride in its legacy of resistance and courage. She recalled the role of tribal freedom fighters such as Tilka Majhi, who raised the banner of revolt against exploitation nearly 240 years ago.

Murmu also remembered the historic Santhal Hul led by the brothers Sidhu Murmu and Kanhu Murmu along with Chand Murmu, Bhairav Murmu and the sisters Phulo Murmu and Jhano Murmu.

The President noted that the year 2003 marked an important milestone for the community when the Santali language was included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India. She also mentioned that a Santali translation of the Constitution written in the Ol Chiki script was released last year on the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Murmu highlighted the contribution of Raghunath Murmu, who invented the Ol Chiki script in 1925 and played a significant role in promoting Santali literature and cultural awareness.

Emphasising the importance of preserving language and traditions, the President said tribal communities have safeguarded their folk music, dances and close relationship with nature for centuries. She stressed that the values of environmental conservation should be passed on to future generations.

Murmu also urged tribal youth to focus on education, health and economic empowerment while staying connected to their cultural roots. She expressed confidence that tribal communities would continue to demonstrate harmony between development and nature while contributing to a stronger and more inclusive India.