Ranchi, 15 November:
A grand state-level celebration was held in Ranchi on Saturday to mark the 25th Jharkhand Foundation Day. Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Chief Minister Hemant Soren, ministers and senior officials addressed the gathering and highlighted the welfare schemes being implemented by the state government.
Speaking as the chief guest at the main ceremony organised at Morabadi Ground on the occasion of the state’s 25th foundation year and the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, Governor Gangwar said that with public cooperation and the effective implementation of visionary policies, solutions to Jharkhand’s challenges are achievable.
Governor’s Address
The Governor noted that Jharkhand faces issues such as education gaps, health challenges, poverty, unemployment and migration. However, over the last 25 years, successive governments have made progress in several key sectors including education, agriculture, mining, energy, sports and culture.
He added that the state’s natural and mineral resources, cultural heritage and hardworking citizens are its greatest strengths. Stressing the need for planned development of religious, cultural and natural sites, he said such initiatives would not only boost tourism but also generate large-scale employment opportunities.
According to the Governor, the completion of 25 years of Jharkhand is a moment of pride, reflection and renewed commitment for every resident. Paying tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, Sidho-Kanhu, Nilambar-Pitambar, Phulo-Jhano and other freedom fighters, he said their sacrifices have enriched the legacy of Jharkhand.
The Governor also expressed gratitude to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for his role in the creation of the state. He added that the day holds special significance as the entire nation observes the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda as Tribal Pride Day. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving national recognition to the contributions of Birsa Munda.
Government Working on Roadmap for Jharkhand 2050: Chief Minister
Chief Minister Hemant Soren, who presided over the event, said that the government is preparing a roadmap for Jharkhand’s development till 2050. He remarked that Jharkhand has contributed more resources to the country than any other state and therefore expects rightful support from the nation.
He stated that the government is focusing on sectors beyond mining and highlighted the achievements of Jharkhand’s youth in sports. The Chief Minister said that efforts are being made to empower half of the state’s population and the budget allocation for welfare programmes has been increased. He added that the people of Jharkhand are not merely tribal communities but the original inheritors of India, committed to moving forward with the nation.
During his address, the Chief Minister became emotional while remembering Guruji Shibu Soren, acknowledging his lifelong struggle, sacrifices and commitment to protecting water, forests and land. He said the responsibility of shaping the future of Jharkhand rests equally with the people and the government.
Congress in-charge for Jharkhand K. Raju praised the contributions of Dishom Guru Shibu Soren and former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in the formation of the state. He said that Rajiv Gandhi had set up a committee for the creation of Jharkhand, which eventually paved the way for statehood. He added that the loan waiver scheme has benefitted four lakh farmers and that the present government is committed to fulfilling public aspirations.
Jharkhand Ranked Ninth in Revenue Collection: Finance Minister
State Finance Minister Radhakrishna Kishore said that the government remains committed to progress in education, health and other key areas. He stated that the state ranks ninth in the country in revenue collection, but there is a need for further improvement in expenditure quality.
He accused the central government of not providing Jharkhand its rightful share of central taxes amounting to nineteen thousand crore rupees. He added that coal companies have outstanding dues of one lakh sixty-two thousand crore rupees, which have not been released. With adequate support from the Centre, Jharkhand could emerge as one of the leading states, he said. He also expressed disappointment over the absence of the opposition at the event.
Support for Local Industries and Weavers
Industry Minister Sanjay Prasad Yadav said Jharkhand is progressing rapidly under the leadership of Chief Minister Hemant Soren. He noted that the state has approved the new small industries policy and is preparing to introduce a food policy. The government is focusing on the development of khadi and tasar industries and is working to provide better market access to local weavers.
Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar highlighted the role of Maiyya Samman Yojana and Savitribai Phule Yojana in empowering women in the state. He said that the government is ensuring food security through the green ration card for families left out of the national scheme.
Ceremony Highlights
The event began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by dignitaries. Governor Santosh Gangwar and other guests were honoured with mementoes and saplings. A short film depicting the struggles of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and Guruji Shibu Soren was also screened.
The ceremony was attended by MLA Kalpana Soren, Rajya Sabha MP Mahua Maji, Congress state president Keshav Mahato Kamlesh, MLA Amit Mahato, senior officials including Home Department Principal Secretary Vandana Dadel, Additional Chief Secretary to the Governor Nitin Madan Kulkarni, DGP Tadasha Mishra, Additional Chief Secretary Health Ajay Singh, Ranchi Deputy Commissioner Manojnath Bhajantari and thousands of people from different districts of the state.
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