Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today inaugurated the “Shabari Sanskrutika Bhavan” at IRC Village in Bhubaneswar, organised by the Shabari Sanskrutika Parishad for the districts of Koraput, Rayagada, Nabarangpur, and Malkangiri.
Majhi also announced a grant of ₹2 crore for the upgradation of this short-stay facility. Additionally, the Chief Minister declared that all necessary infrastructure and facilities for the development of Shabari Bhavan will be provided.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister emphasised that Shabari Bhavan is not merely a shelter but a platform for the emergence of tribal youth and leadership. It will serve as a centre for short-term accommodation, education, employment, and cultural activities for tribal brothers and sisters.
Today’s inauguration of Shabari Bhavan marks a significant step forward. It will host conferences, training camps, art exhibitions, and research programs, fostering cultural vibrancy. Tribal communities visiting this center will feel at home, and their journey toward education, healthcare, employment, and progress will begin here. Tribal culture is not limited to dance and music; it is a way of life, a soul. Protecting and promoting it is the collective responsibility of all. Shabari Bhavan will play a pivotal role in keeping this culture alive and vibrant, the Chief Minister stated.
He further announced that a Tribal Culture and Heritage Bhavan and a Tribal Language Institute are being established in Bhubaneswar. A record ₹68,881 crore has been allocated specifically for the welfare of the state’s 40% tribal and scheduled caste population, in addition to regular welfare schemes. This reflects the government’s commitment to tribal welfare. The Chief Minister expressed his belief that a society that respects its roots progresses rapidly. The tribal community is the pride of Odisha and the foundation of its culture. As a son of the tribal community, he vowed to dedicate his full efforts to advancing this society.
The Chief Minister added that by 2036, the state aims to achieve comprehensive development, inclusive growth, and tribal empowerment to build a prosperous Odisha. The state’s 24% tribal population will play a crucial role in this journey. To achieve these goals by 2036, 36 specific programs have been prepared, termed “36 for 36.” The double-engine government has completed one year of successful governance and continues its efforts with renewed energy and confidence. In the coming days, the pace of development will accelerate further. This progress will be possible when the government, officials, and the public share a single goal: the development of the state.
In conclusion, the Chief Minister stated that the government is not only united but also committed to the equitable development of the entire state. Shabari Bhavan will stand as a symbol of pride for Odisha’s people and an inspiration for the new generation.
During the program, the Minister of Mass Education and President of the Shabari Cultural Council, Nityananda Gond, stated that tribal culture has given a unique identity to Odia pride and self-respect. The government has formed a task force for the South Odisha Development Council and allocated ₹200 crore each for its initiatives. This will accelerate development in South Odisha, particularly in the undivided Koraput district, with Shabari Bhavan playing a significant role in this journey.
The event was attended by dignitaries including MP Muna Khan, MP Balabhadra Majhi, former President of Shabari Sanskrutika Parishad and former Minister Ramesh Chandra Majhi, former President of Shabari Sanskrutika Parishad and former Minister Arabinda Dhali, Advisor to Shabari Sanskrutika Parishad and MLA Tara Prasad Bahinipati, Nabarangpur MLA Gauri Shankar Majhi, Jharigaon MLA Narsingh Bhatra, Kotpad MLA Rupa Bhatra, Koraput MLA Raghuram Macha, Malkangiri MLA Narsingh Madkami, Rayagada MLA Kadrak Apalswamy, Bissam Cuttack MLA Nilamadhab Hikka, and former Minister Jagannath Saraka.
Jeypore MLA Taraprasad Bahinipati delivered the welcome address, while the Vice-President of Shabari Sanskrutika Parishad, Godabarish Mahapatra, gave the vote of thanks.
