The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu graced and addressed a public programme at Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh today (October 23, 2026) on the occasion of Bastar Dussehra.
Speaking on the occasion, the President said that Bastar Dussehra serves as a vibrant symbol of Chhattisgarh’s cultural pride and collective faith. The manner in which the entire community participates in the Bastar Dussehra festival is truly extraordinary. Various rituals of this festival foster a deep sense of connection and kinship among different sections of society.
The President said that Chhattisgarh has long endured the scourge of Naxalism. Through the coordinated efforts of the central and state governments, the region has been freed from the menace of Naxal violence and is now advancing rapidly along the path of progress. She was happy to note that in recent times, initiatives to provide financial support to tribal entrepreneurs and connect them with markets have been further accelerated. She expressed confidence that these efforts will prove instrumental in achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047 through equitable and inclusive development.
The President added that tribal communities worship nature which is life-giving. In the journey of development, we should draw valuable lessons from the nature-nurturing lifestyle of the tribal community. She underlined the importance of preserving and nurturing the nature.
Before the public programme, the President interacted with the local Manjhi and Chalki in the Muriya Darbar. She also visited the Rangoli and Dussehra exhibition at Jagdalpur.
Earlier, the President performed darshan and pooja at Maa Danteshwari Temple at Jagdalpur.
Please click here to see the President’s speech