Ranchi, August 13, 2026: Usha Martin University organised an academic panel discussion on “Media, Culture, and Society: Reimagining the Adivasi Narrative in Contemporary India”, to celebrate the World Tribal Day. The programme was organized by the Faculty of Journalism and Mass Communication (FJMC). The discussion brought together speakers, faculty members and students to examine Adivasi identity, culture, literature, education, sustainability and media representation.
The panel comprised Nesha Oraon, IRS, Commissioner of Income Tax, Prof. Satya Narayan Munda, Former Vice Chancellor, Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University, and Dr. Santosh Kiro, former journalist and tribal author. The discussion was moderated by Suman Shrivastava, veteran journalist and editor.
Speaking during the discussion, Nesha Oraon emphasized that contemporary life does not require tribal communities to abandon their traditions. She urged young Adivasis to remain connected to their cultural roots while entering new educational and professional spaces. She said that young people can become torchbearers for their communities by creating space for those who have not yet entered such professions. Her message, “Jado se jude rahiye aur udaan bhariye”, captured the central theme of the discussion to remain rooted while pursuing new opportunities.
Nesha Oraon also highlighted the close relationship between Adivasi communities and nature. She described tribal communities as the “roots of India” and noted the importance of nature worship in tribal traditions. She stressed the need for sustainable use of natural resources so that communities can continue to survive while protecting their cultural and ecological heritage. She also emphasised the importance of collective life and suggested that the spirit of cooperation should remain central even as young people enter increasingly competitive professional environments.
Prof. Satya Narayan Munda highlighted the importance of ensuring that tribal communities are able to sustain themselves while retaining their cultural identity. He stressed that development must take into account the survival and sustainability of tribal communities and their traditional relationship with natural resources.
Dr. Santosh Kiro appreciated the University for providing an academic platform for discussing tribal issues. He observed that tribal concerns have not often received such focused discussion at the university level and described the initiative as an important step. He highlighted the rich storytelling traditions of tribal communities and suggested that stories of communities such as the Asur should be introduced into literature and educational curricula.
Kiro further stressed that tribal literature should be included in schools and colleges so that students can understand Adivasi histories, experiences and knowledge systems. The discussion also explored the role of Indian Knowledge Systems in bringing tribal knowledge and traditions into formal education.
The panel also addressed Adivasi identity within the larger national framework. The speakers emphasised that distinct tribal identities do not conflict with national unity and that Adivasi communities remain an integral part of India’s social and cultural fabric.
The programme was held in the presence of Prof. Rajni Kant, Vice Chancellor, Usha Martin University, Brigadier Sumar Vir Singh, PVC Administration, Dr. Shiv Pratap Verma, Registrar, faculty members and students. The discussion concluded with a shared call to preserve tribal knowledge, strengthen community life, promote sustainable development and create greater opportunities for Adivasi youth while remaining firmly connected to their cultural roots.
