Exhibitions and programmes that bring to light the immense contribution of unsung heroes of our freedom struggle will be an eye opener for the future generations to know the history and sacrifice behind the freedom that we enjoy today. This was stated by Shri D. Venkatesh IFS, Conservator of Forests & Field Director, Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Nilgiris, during the inauguration of a photo exhibition organised in Nilgiris by the Regional Outreach Bureau, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Chennai  to commemorate 75 years of Indian Independence and the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives in the struggle.

As we are celebrating 75 years of Indian Independence,  such exhibitions will make the citizens aware of the unknown freedom fighters, he said.

Dr. S. Udayakumar, Director, Tribal Research Centre, Nilgiris said that the Central and State Governments have come up with a lot of welfare schemes and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs is also playing an important role for the development of tribal community. Tribal leaders also actively participated in the freedom struggle and  the anniversary of Shri Birsa Munda, the tribal freedom fighter is now celebrated as Jan Jatiya Diwas, he added.

While delivering the special address, Shri S. Venkateswar IIS, Director General (South Zone), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, said that least popular and local freedom fighters of South India are being highlighted in these exhibitions. Around 750 exhibitions will be held on this theme in the coming days throughout the country, he informed. Radical changes have been made in our country since independence due to the efforts of freedom fighters, he said.

Shri M. Annadurai IIS, Additional Director General, Press Information Bureau/Regional Outreach Bureau, Chennai said such exhibitions are conducted across the state to create more awareness about the struggle of freedom fighters. He asked the public to gain knowledge about the different schemes and loans available and utilize them effectively.

Earlier, Shri J. Kamaraj IIS, Director, Regional Outreach Bureau, Chennai welcomed the gathering and Smt. Kareena B. Thengamam, Deputy Director, Field Outreach Bureau, Coimbatore rendered vote of thanks.

During the inaugural ceremony, floral tribute was paid to the bust of Mahatma Gandhi and pamphlets on tribal welfare schemes and a special booklet on Central Government schemes were also released. Shri Jayaraman, Project Director, District Rural Development Agency and Smt. Parimalam, Adidravidar Welfare officer, Nilgiris were felicitated by the dignitaries.

The traditional dance of Todas and Kotas- the tribes of Nilgiris attracted the attention of audience. A special session on Yoga and tribal welfare was another highlight in the exhibition that will be open for the public till 24th May, 2022.

###

(Release ID: 1826924) Visitor Counter : 1286