Chief Minister Prof Dr Manik Saha on Thursday attended the state-level Tharlak Kut–2026, the traditional harvest festival of the Darlong community, held at Darchawi in Kumarghat.The Chief Minister arrived in Kumarghat by train and proceeded to the festival venue, where he was warmly welcomed by members of the Darlong community. Social Education and Social Welfare Minister Tinku Roy, Pabiachhara MLA Bhagaban Das and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.Addressing the gathering, Dr Saha said the implementation of the Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Act, 2022 had brought an end to the long-standing identity crisis and deprivation faced by the Darlong people. He said the recognition was not only legal but also a reaffirmation of their cultural pride and historical dignity.He added that since 2022, the traditional Darlong festival has received state-level recognition and has been included in the annual programme of the Information and Cultural Affairs Department.Highlighting the government’s focus on tribal welfare, the Chief Minister said nearly 40 per cent of the development expenditure in the 2024–25 financial year was allocated for the development of tribal areas. He expressed hope that 2026 would pave the way for unity, peace and inclusive development in the state.
