Gurez/Srinagar, August 6: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today inaugurated the two-day National Tribal Festival in Gurez, celebrating the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Dard-Shina tribal community. Addressing the gathering virtually, the LG hailed the community as a "precious treasure of India" and praised its deep-rooted connection to nature and sustainable living.
The festival, marked by vibrant performances from artists across Jammu & Kashmir and other states under the theme of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, witnessed a large turnout of locals, officials, and dignitaries.
Speaking on the occasion, LG Sinha emphasized the invaluable contribution of India’s tribal communities to the nation’s cultural diversity. “Their rich traditions are a guiding light for us,” he said, paying homage to tribal icon Birsa Munda.
He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership for restoring the dignity and cultural pride of India’s tribal communities. “The ancient glory of tribal heritage is being revived, and their priceless culture is being preserved with respect and commitment,” the LG remarked.
Highlighting the government’s focus on tribal welfare, LG Sinha noted that “decades of injustice ended in August 2019,” referring to the post-Article 370 reforms. “Since then, transformative initiatives have significantly improved the socio-economic conditions of our tribal brothers and sisters,” he said.
The LG also dedicated Shina Gilgit 88.8 FM, a community radio station, to the Dard-Shina community. He said the station will play a vital role in inspiring the youth to protect and promote their unique cultural identity.
“I suggest a weekly program on this new station that tells the story of the community—its history, art, language, and traditions. The voices of our elders must reach the young generation,” he said.
Lauding the development strides in Gurez, the Lieutenant Governor recalled that the region was connected to the national power grid in 2023 for the first time since independence, reflecting the administration’s commitment to inclusive development.
“From remote isolation to being ranked among India’s top offbeat travel destinations, Gurez has transformed into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its serene landscapes and cultural richness,” the LG noted.
He commended the efforts of the Indian Army, the Department of Tribal Affairs, the District Administration, and voluntary organizations in preserving the cultural legacy of the Dard-Shina community.
During the inaugural ceremony, members of the tribal community were honoured for their service to society and their cooperation with the Indian Army.
The event was attended by Javed Ahmed Rana, Minister for Tribal Affairs, Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment; Nazir Ahmad Khan, MLA from Gurez; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Prasanna Ramaswamy G, Secretary, Tribal Affairs Department; Manzoor Ahmad Qadri, Deputy Commissioner Bandipora; senior officers from the Army, civil and police administration, and a large number of local residents.
