VP, C. P. Radhakrishnan pays tribute at Birsa Munda’s birthplace, attends IIM Ranchi convocation

Ranchi, March 28: Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Saturday visited Ulihatu village in Jharkhand’s Khunti district, the birthplace of tribal icon Birsa Munda, and paid floral tributes, emphasising that his life and sacrifice continue to inspire generations.
During his visit, the Vice-President interacted with the descendants of Birsa Munda and described the occasion as deeply moving.
“After assuming the office of the Vice-President of India, I am deeply moved to once again visit Ulihatu, the sacred birthplace of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. I pay my deepest respects to this great freedom fighter, whose life and sacrifice continue to inspire generations,” he said.
Recalling his earlier association with the state, Radhakrishnan added, “I fondly recall the day I took the oath as the governor of Jharkhand. On that very day, I had travelled to Ulihatu, an experience that remains profoundly meaningful.”
Highlighting the Centre’s initiatives to honour tribal heritage, he referred to the 2021 decision by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to commemorate November 15 as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.
“The visionary decision… has elevated national awareness and pride in our tribal heritage,” he said.
Radhakrishnan also spoke about the PM-JANMAN scheme aimed at empowering particularly vulnerable tribal communities, calling it a transformative initiative.
“This two-pronged approach… truly embodies the realisation of the rights and dignity for which Bhagwan Birsa Munda fought so valiantly,” he added.
Earlier in the day, the Vice-President was received at Ranchi airport by Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar, Union Minister Sanjay Seth and state minister Sudivya Kumar.
Later, he attended the 15th convocation of the Indian Institute of Management Ranchi, where a total of 558 degrees were awarded. He also presented medals to seven outstanding students, including honours such as the Student Citizenship Award and the Professor Ashish Hajela Award for overall excellence, officials said.