New Delhi, August 31, 2025: The Akhil Bharatiya Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram inaugurated the Bhagwan Birsa Munda Bhavan—a Tribal Research and Training Centre—at Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, on Sunday evening in a grand ceremony attended by prominent dignitaries, social leaders, and activists.
The newly constructed Bhavan, named in memory of the legendary tribal freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda, 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.
Shri Vishnukant Ji, All India Joint General Secretary, addressed the guests and the public at the event, sharing details about the efforts that went into constructing the Birsa Munda Bhawan. He also outlined the objectives and purposes the Bhawan is envisioned to serve.
The event was presided over by Shri Satyendra Singh Ji, Hon’ble President of Akhil Bharatiya Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram. In his address, he remarked that since time immemorial, the tribal communities of India have 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).
Shri Durga Das Uike, Hon’ble Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, who graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour, 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.
Shri Kiren Rijiju, Hon’ble Minister of Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, who was also present as a Guest of Honour at the event, 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 further emphasized 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.
Shri Manohar Lal Khattar Ji, Hon’ble Minister of Urban Development and Energy, Government of India, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, 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 Pujya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Yatindranand Giri Ji Maharaj of Jeevan Deep Ashram, Roorkee, who lauded the initiative as a spiritual and cultural milestone for the tribal society and the nation at large. Swamiji 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. He also praised the work of Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, describing it as noble and divine service.
Addressing the gathering as the Chief Speaker, Shri Dattatreya Hosabale Ji, Sarkaryavah (General Secretary) of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, 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. Shri Hosabale Ji 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. He further expressed confidence that this mission would be carried forward in the right spirit through the establishment of Bhagwan Birsa Munda Bhawan.
Senior functionaries of the Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram—including Shri Yogesh Ji Bapat, Shri Atul Ji Jog, Shri Vishnu Kant Ji, Shri Suresh Kulkarni Ji, Shri Praveen Dolke Ji, and Dr. Madhavi Deb Barman—were also present, alongside heads and deputy heads of educational institutions from Delhi and NCR.
Speaking on behalf of the organizers, leaders of the Ashram said that the Bhavan is envisioned as a center for tribal research, youth leadership training, and awareness programs aimed at preserving tribal knowledge systems. They emphasized that the initiative is particularly significant as the nation observes the 150th Birth Anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda (2024–2025).
The inauguration program witnessed enthusiastic participation from workers of Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, representatives of various governmental and non-governmental organizations, and people from diverse sections of society.
The evening concluded with a collective resolve to carry forward the mission of holistic development of India’s tribal society, inspired by the ideals of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
