Guwahati: Akhil Bharatiya Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram inaugurated Bhagwan Birsa Munda Bhavan—a Tribal Research and Training Centre—at Pushp Vihar in New Delhi on 31 August 2025. Named in memory of the legendary tribal freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda, the Bhavan was formally dedicated to the nation in the presence of a large gathering of men and women activists, representatives of various institutions, and members of civil society.
Addressing the gathering, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale highlighted the vital role of tribal heritage in shaping India’s national identity. He noted that since its inception, the Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram has been committed to building a capable, dignified, and self-reliant tribal society. He lauded the Ashram and its activists for their relentless efforts to protect and preserve tribal identity and existence while ensuring their holistic development. Hosabale stressed that developmental initiatives in tribal areas must empower the people rather than displace them, affirming that tribal communities should not be reduced to mere exhibits in a museum but nurtured as a vibrant, living culture.
Presiding over the function, Akhil Bharatiya Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram president Satyendra Singh commented that since time immemorial, the tribal communities of Bharat safeguarded and nurtured nature through a way of life deeply rooted in reverence for the environment and all that it represents. He further informed the gathering that Kalyan Ashram has consistently endeavored to protect tribal identity (asmita) and existence (astitva), while simultaneously ensuring their holistic development (vikas).
Durga Das Uike, Minister of State for Tribal Affairs in his speech observed that the contributions of tribal communities to Indian civilization are immense. He expressed hope that the Birsa Munda Bhawan would play a significant role in showcasing and promoting tribal life and culture. Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs observed that the tribal communities of India—from east to west and north to south—are very much an integral part of the nation’s social mainstream, alongside other communities. He noted that they have always played a vital role in safeguarding India’s borders, from ancient times to the present day. He stated that the Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram is the only organization that has built a heart-to-heart connection with tribal communities, not by approaching them as benefactors, but by treating them as their own brethren.
Manohar Lal Khattar, Minister of Urban Development and Energy, highlighted the government’s commitment towards strengthening infrastructure and welfare programs for tribal communities. He said that the Bhavan will become a hub of research, training, and leadership development, paving the way for inclusive development. Blessings were invoked by Mahamandaleshwar Swami Yatindranand Giri Maharaj of Jeevan Deep Ashram, Roorkee. He remarked that development achieved at the cost of nature is not true development but rather destruction. He emphasized that tribal communities must have a voice in developmental activities carried out in their regions.
Bhagwan Birsa Munda Bhavan inaugurated
