Mysore/Mysuru: MLC C.N. Manjegowda has said, the legendary tribal leader Birsa Munda, fought against British, for the rights of tribals.

Manjegowda, addressed the gathering after inaugurating 150th birth anniversary celebrations  of Birsa Munda and Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Adivasi Nyay Gaurav Divas, organised jointly by Karnataka State Tribal Research Institute (KSTRI), Zilla Panchayat and Department of Social Welfare, at the premises of KSTRI, Bogadi here yesterday.

“Birsa Munda who belonged to the most backward tribal community emerged as a leader, whose lifestyle and ability to lead the movement, should be adored as a model by the students. Nobody can be a born leader, but can become so by acquiring knowledge with better education,”                         opined Manjegowda.

The tribal community is still plagued by several issues. Both the State and Central Government, must chalk out more schemes to address the grievances of the tribal community. Awareness should be created among the officers about the schemes and the beneficiaries should make judicious use of the same.

Padma Shri Amai Mahalinga Naik and Somanna, were felicitated along with the students who have achieved in several fields, on the occasion.

The inaugural session was followed by cultural programmes by the children of tribal communities.

Director of Tribal Affairs, New Delhi, Shivanand Bachagundi, Additional Deputy Commissioner Dr. P. Shivaraju, Director of Scheduled Tribes (ST) Welfare Department T. Yogesh, Joint Director Dr. Rajkumar, Suresh Reddy, Deputy Director of ST Welfare Department Rajashekara Murthy and others were present.