Arjun Munda inaugurates 4th EMRS National Cultural & Literary Fest and Kala Utsav-2023

Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Arjun Munda, inaugurated the 4th Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) National Cultural & Literary Fest and Kala Utsav-2023 in the picturesque city of Dehradun on the 3rd of October, 2023.

Distinguished Guests and Venue

The event was graced by the presence of the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, and was hosted at the Maharana Pratap Sports College. Organized by the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), under the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs, and hosted by the Eklavya Vidyalaya Sangathan Samiti (EVSS) of Uttarakhand, this fest provides a national platform for tribal students to showcase their hidden talents across various spheres.

Celebrating Tribal Talent

The Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) Cultural Fest is an annual extravaganza eagerly anticipated by tribal students from all corners of India. This year’s four-day event, scheduled from the 3rd to the 6th of October, boasts participation from over 2000 tribal students hailing from 22 different states. It promises an array of more than 20 events, ranging from captivating dance and song performances to stimulating quizzes and vibrant visual arts presentations.

A Showcase of Tribal Culture

The fest has thoughtfully arranged stalls representing different states to showcase the rich cultural heritage of various tribal communities. This initiative not only offers a window into the diverse and vibrant tapestry of tribal culture but also promotes cultural exchange and mutual understanding among the attendees.

Bridging Cultures: ‘Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat’

Union Minister Shri Arjun Munda emphasized the significance of events like these in fostering unity and understanding among children and teachers from different regions of the country. He underscored how such gatherings fulfill the vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat,’ an initiative championed by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Shri Munda stated, “I believe that such programs will inspire you and give you a good opportunity to know about your own culture as well as the rich traditions of the tribal communities living in different corners of the country.

Uttarakhand’s Rich Tribal Heritage

Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami proudly highlighted the diverse traditions and culture of the tribal communities in Uttarakhand. He also shed light on the various government schemes implemented in the state for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes.

EMRS: A Beacon of Quality Education

During the inaugural ceremony, Dr. Naval Jit Kapoor, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Commissioner of NESTS, provided insights into the EMRS scheme. This scheme, a flagship intervention of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, was revamped in 2018-19 with the noble aim of ensuring that tribal students in remote tribal areas have access to quality education.

Celebrating Culture and Unity

The inaugural ceremony was a spectacle in itself, featuring captivating cultural performances by tribal communities from Uttarakhand and talented students from EMRS. It set the stage for what promises to be a week filled with talent, culture, and unity. The 4th EMRS National Cultural & Literary Fest and Kala Utsav-2023 stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of tribal culture and talent that thrives in India. It not only provides a platform for students to showcase their skills but also promotes cultural exchange and mutual understanding, furthering the cause of unity in diversity.