Jamshedpur: Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar on Monday said that President Droupadi Murmu is a living example of tribal upliftment, calling her life journey an inspiration for society. He was addressing the 22nd Santali Language Day and Ol Chiki Centenary celebrations organised by the All India Santali Writers Association and the Dishom Jaherthan Committee at Karandih.
The Governor said the event was not merely a festival but a symbol of the vibrancy, pride, and continuity of tribal culture. He noted that Jamshedpur stands as an example of communal harmony and cultural unity. Recalling a key milestone, he said Santali was included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution in 2003 during the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led government, when he himself was a minister.
Paying tribute to Pandit Raghunath Murmu (Guru Gomke), the creator of the Ol Chiki script, Gangwar said Ol Chiki is not just a script but the cultural identity and heritage of the Santhal community. He described Murmu’s creation of a scientific and systematic script in 1925, despite limited resources, as a remarkable achievement rooted in scholarship and social commitment.
The Governor said that under the Narendra Modi government, continuous efforts are being made for tribal development and preservation of heritage. He assured that Raj Bhavan would always support the protection of tribal languages and culture.
He added that the presence of President Murmu made the centenary celebrations historic and urged the youth to strengthen Ol Chiki through education, technology, and daily use so future generations remain connected to their roots.
