IN AN address connecting indigenous heritage with modern progress, President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday asserted that true societal empowerment cannot be measured by economic development alone. Speaking at a mega-conference on tribal empowerment organized by the Brahma Kumaris institution held in Betul, the President stated that genuine progress is realized only when individuals develop self-confidence, self-respect, and a deep sense of accountability. “Tribal society is a community that lives with immense selfrespect, and this very characteristic makes it unique,” President Murmu said. “A fine balance between development and culture forms the foundation of any strong and prosperous society. Sustainable development is that which strengthens our roots while opening pathways to future possibilities.” Global Lessons from the Tribal Way of Life: With global discussions increasingly centering on climate change, the President held up the lifestyle of India’s indigenous (Adivasi) communities as a vital blueprint for environmental conservation. She noted that tribal communities have traditionally lived in absolute harmony with nature, viewing the Earth, sky, air, water, Sun, and Moon not just as resources, but as centers of devotion. “Tribal communities protect nature rather than harming it. They offer respect to nature before utilizing any resource,” she said, adding that at a time when the world is grappling with ecological crises, the tribal way of life can serve as a guiding light for humanity.

 

However, the President cautioned that preservation should not mean isolation. She made a strong case for bridging tradition with modernity, calling for tribal youth to be aggressively connected with modern education, skill development, and digital literacy so they can thrive in a contemporary world without losing their cultural identity. Eradicating Sickle Cell Anemia & A Return to Roots: With India eyeing a “Developed Nation” status by 2047, President Murmu emphasized that this milestone remains unachievable unless marginalized sections are brought into the mainstream. Lauding the Madhya Pradesh government’s targeted healthcare interventions, she specifically highlighted the state’s aggressive campaign against sickle cell anemia—a genetic blood disorder highly prevalent in tribal pockets. During her visit, the President also inspected an exhibition of local tribal heritage and natural farming products. Sounding a note of caution against the rampant use of chemical fertilizers and foreign pesticides, she advocated for a return to traditional natural farming. “Natural farming is beneficial not only for physical health but also positively influences the mind, body, and spiritual consciousness,” she observed. A Confluence of Service and Spirituality:The event, which began with a ceremonial kalash and flag presentation to the Brahma Kumari sisters, also saw addresses from regional leaders. Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel shared his decades-long association with the spiritual institution, noting that daily meditation offers the inner balance and positive energy required to guide society forward