First Citizen & The 9%

Droupadi Murmu proves Modi govt’s commitment to empowerment of tribals, writes the Home Minister

- Amit Shah

The election of Droupadi Murmu as the President of India is a historic moment for Indian democracy. Her remarkable journey from an extremely poor tribal area in Odisha, that too from the disadvantaged Santhal community, to the highest constitutional position in the country has been marked by struggles, grit and determination.

The elevation of a person of such humble origins as the First Citizen is a matter of great joy for all of India, more so for the tribal community. It is sad that the nation had to wait for 70 long years to see a tribal woman reach the highest office of the land. This moment marks yet another victory for our democracy and our Constitution under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Tribals constitute nearly 9% of our population. Their sacrifices for our freedom are unforgettable. Unfortunately, post-Independence most governments did not do enough for their development and empowerment. Hardly any efforts were made to bring them into the national mainstream, and they also remained devoid of important offices.

It was only under the leadership of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee that serious steps were taken to fulfil the aspirations of our tribal society. In 1999 he created a separate tribal affairs ministry, which was followed by the formation of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes through the 89th Constitutional Amendment in 2003. The transformation of our tribal communities started by Vajpayee has been taken forward by PM Modi with more vigour and resolve.