President Droupadi Murmu praises Bastar Pandum as boost to tribal identity and development

President Droupadi Murmu addressed a delegation from the Bastar region at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre, describing the Bastar Pandum as more than a cultural show –‑ “a celebration of Bastar's glorious traditions and cultural identity.” She said the festival helps reconnect tribal youth with their heritage, promotes tourism and creates local jobs.

The President highlighted the transformation of Bastar from an area once plagued by violence to one seeing new roads, electricity, drinking water and reopened schools. She praised the role of community figures such as the Pargana Manjhi and Chalki, calling them “effective bridges between society and the administration.” Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai attended, and the President personally served a special meal to the 209‑member tribal delegation.

Murmu expressed confidence that continued government effort and tribal participation will sustain peace, education, and economic growth in Bastar.