President Droupadi Murmu interacted with members of the Siddi community, a primitive tribal group with African roots, during her visit to Junagadh district in Gujarat on October 10. In her address, she encouraged the community to view education as a key tool for empowerment, equality, and social progress. The President expressed happiness over the community’s rising literacy rate, which now stands at over 72 per cent, and called it a sign of growing awareness and self-development among tribal people.

I wanted to write about this because President Murmu’s message goes beyond a ceremonial address—it reflects a deep understanding of how education can transform the lives of tribal communities in India. Her appeal to the Siddi community to continue prioritising learning is especially significant, given that education opens doors to opportunities, dignity, and participation in the nation’s development. This moment also highlights how tribal empowerment is a national priority, connecting grassroots aspirations with India’s larger vision of inclusive growth.

President Murmu’s Message to the Siddi Community

During her visit, President Murmu urged members of the Siddi community to pursue education not merely as a path to employment but as a means of empowerment and self-reliance. She highlighted that education builds confidence, awareness, and a sense of identity—essential for communities that have faced social and economic marginalisation.

The President commended the Siddis for achieving a literacy rate of 72 per cent, despite their small population and limited resources. “Education is the most powerful tool for change,” she said, adding that it enables individuals to make informed choices and contribute to the nation’s progress.

President Murmu, herself belonging to a tribal background, reminded the community that education and awareness must go hand in hand with cultural pride. She encouraged them to preserve their traditions and values while embracing modern education and skill development.

A Call for Awareness and Participation in Government Schemes

In her speech, President Murmu also stressed the importance of staying informed about various development and welfare schemes launched by the Central Government for tribal communities. She said that the government has been implementing several initiatives in education, healthcare, skill training, and livelihood enhancement through the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

She urged members of the Siddi community to not only make use of these schemes for their own growth but also to help others in their villages and neighbourhoods access them. By doing so, she said, the community can strengthen its social fabric and ensure that no one is left behind.

President Murmu’s remarks are seen as a continuation of her consistent advocacy for tribal welfare and women’s empowerment, which she has championed since assuming office.

Who Are the Siddi Tribe?

The Siddis are one of India’s lesser-known tribal groups, believed to have descended from African immigrants who arrived in India over 300 years ago. They primarily reside in Gujarat, Karnataka, and parts of Maharashtra. In Gujarat, they are recognised as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) due to their unique cultural identity and socio-economic challenges.

Despite historical marginalisation, the Siddi community has made notable progress in education and sports. Many members have represented India in athletics and other disciplines, earning recognition for their talent and perseverance.

The President’s visit to Junagadh holds special symbolic value—it not only recognises their heritage but also reinforces the government’s ongoing commitment to inclusive development.

Government Efforts Toward Tribal Education and Welfare

The Central and State Governments have been actively promoting tribal education through schemes like:

• Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS): Providing quality education to tribal students from Class 6 to 12.
• Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana: Focused on livelihood, infrastructure, and education improvement for tribal populations.
• National Fellowship and Scholarship for ST Students: Offering financial assistance for higher studies in India and abroad.

President Murmu emphasised that the success of these initiatives depends on community awareness and participation. “Education and awareness are the two pillars of progress,” she said, urging local leaders to help connect every eligible person to these opportunities.

Why Education Matters for Tribal Empowerment

For tribal communities like the Siddis, education is more than a classroom experience—it’s a path to self-determination and social justice. Access to quality education can help break cycles of poverty, prevent early marriages, and empower youth to participate in governance and development.

Experts note that educated tribal youth are increasingly taking up roles in administration, entrepreneurship, and community leadership, serving as role models for others. However, challenges such as poor infrastructure, language barriers, and financial constraints still persist, especially in remote tribal belts.

President Murmu’s Leadership and Symbolism

As India’s first tribal President, Droupadi Murmu’s engagement with tribal communities carries profound symbolism. Her journey from a modest background in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district to the country’s highest constitutional office represents the transformative power of education and perseverance.

Through her outreach, she continues to highlight the need for equitable access to education and sustainable development for tribal communities. Her message to the Siddi community in Gujarat is part of this larger mission—to inspire every tribal child to dream, learn, and lead.