POONCH, OCTOBER 27: District Development Commissioner Poonch Ashok Kumar Sharma today chaired a meeting to review the arrangements and preparedness for the observance of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (JJGD), scheduled to be celebrated from November 1 to November 15, 2026, across the district.
The meeting focused on ensuring the coordinated participation of various departments in organising a series of activities highlighting the rich cultural heritage, traditions, history and contributions of tribal communities, particularly their role in India’s freedom struggle and nation-building.
During the meeting, the DDC stressed the importance of making the fortnight-long celebrations meaningful, inclusive and participatory, with special emphasis on creating awareness about tribal identity, cultural values, traditional knowledge and the achievements of tribal freedom fighters including Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
The planned activities will include awareness programmes in educational institutions, cultural performances showcasing tribal traditions, folk music and dance programmes, exhibitions highlighting tribal art and handicrafts and activities promoting traditional customs and indigenous knowledge. Special programmes will also be organised to educate students and the general public about the life, struggles and legacy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and other tribal heroes.
The celebrations will also focus on awareness regarding government welfare schemes for tribal communities, education, healthcare, nutrition, livelihood opportunities, skill development and social welfare initiatives. Activities may include health and wellness camps, cleanliness and plantation drives, sports and youth engagement programmes, awareness rallies, seminars, painting and essay competitions and community outreach activities to encourage wider public participation.
The concerned departments were directed to ensure that the programmes reach tribal habitat areas and involve students, youth, community representatives and local residents. The officers were also asked to ensure timely execution of the activities and maintain proper coordination for the smooth conduct of the celebrations.
The meeting was attended by the Chief Planning Officer, General Manager DIC, Divisional Forest Officer, officers of the PWD, SDMs of Surankote and Mendhar, Chief Medical Officer, Chief Education Officer, Chief Agriculture Officer, District Social Welfare Officer, Chief Animal Husbandry Officer, DYSSO, Culture Department, District AYUSH Officer, Lead District Manager, District Information Officer, FCS&CA, Labour Department, all Block Development Officers, Fisheries Department and wardens of Gujjar and Bakerwal and Pahari hostels, among others.
The DDC directed all concerned officers to work in close inter-departmental coordination and ensure the timely implementation of planned activities for the successful observance of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas across Poonch district.
