Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized the integral role of tribal culture in the state’s identity during the Adivasi Shakti Samavesh event in Baripada. Majhi described the development of tribal and Scheduled Caste communities—who make up around 40% of Odisha’s population—as essential to fulfilling his commitment to a prosperous Odisha by 2036.

He announced a ₹732.48 crore fund to build hostels for ST, SC, and OBC students, and ₹100 crore for ashram schools under the Shaheed Laxman Nayak model. Additionally, the PM‑JANMAN scheme will support nearly 300,000 vulnerable tribal individuals across 14 districts. Projects worth ₹150 crore aim to establish institutions dedicated to preserving tribal culture and language.

Under the Tribal Livelihood Mission, over 145,000 tribal families have benefited from agricultural, irrigation, and animal husbandry support. Around 5,000 tribal youths received ₹1 lakh each to start small enterprises.

Majhi stressed that tribal culture enriches Odisha, citing the state’s numerous tribal languages, dances, festivals, art forms, and handicrafts. He reaffirmed the government’s holistic development strategy—combining socioeconomic growth with cultural preservation—as vital for sustaining Odisha’s identity and unity.

“The tribal identity is not only part of our culture but a foundation of our collective future,” said Majhi as dignitaries and tribal artists celebrated their heritage in Baripada.