Arjun Munda supports Saryu Roy’s initiative to declare East Singhbhum ‘Child-Friendly District’

Let us build not only objects, but character too: Arjun Munda

4th Bal Mela 2025 Concludes Successfully

Over 10,000 children participated in seven days

18 competitive and cultural events organised

Saryu Roy announces even grander preparations for the 5th Bal Mela

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, Nov 20: The week-long 4th Bal Mela 2025 concluded on Thursday with an inspiring message from former Chief Minister Arjun Munda, who endorsed MLA Saryu Roy’s proposal to transform East Singhbhum district into a Child-Friendly District. Speaking as the chief guest at the closing ceremony, Munda called the event a significant step toward fostering cultural, educational and social development among children.

Munda said the fair had created “a constructive and creative atmosphere” in the city.
“Every person carries childhood within them,” he remarked. “Children grow according to the environment around them. As times change, we must ensure that we are not merely creating things, but building character. Our traditions must reflect in our conduct. This Bal Mela has succeeded in bringing back emotional warmth and social bonding at a time when society is becoming increasingly detached.”

The fair, organised from 14–20 November, featured 18 categories of events ranging from sports and quizzes to art, cultural activities, scientific exhibitions and traditional games. More than 10,000 children from various parts of Jamshedpur participated. Special efforts were made to bring in children from underprivileged backgrounds, including those who do not attend school and children engaged in rag-picking.

Mela patron and Jamshedpur West MLA Saryu Roy said the overwhelming participation reflects the “immense talent and enthusiasm” of local children. “If we guide and polish their abilities, they will shine. We ensured that every child—whether from a privileged or disadvantaged background—felt included,” he said. Roy also read out and released the Jamshedpur Declaration, dedicated to strengthening the framework for child development.

The event also featured a series of felicitations. Guests of honour, jury members, sports officials and volunteers were honoured with shawls and mementoes. A floral artwork created by Manita Mahato was presented to Arjun Munda in the presence of noted painter Dipankar Karmakar.

Winners of the Child Scientist Competition across four groups were announced, including Ayank Raj, Ayush Kumar, Shriram Dubey and Vivek Kumar. The programme was anchored by trustee Ashutosh Ray, while industrialist and social worker Ashok Goyal delivered the welcome address.

The presence of community leaders, public representatives and hundreds of parents added grandeur to the ceremony, marking a vibrant conclusion to the seven-day children’s festival.