Learn from tribal communities to keep COVID-19 at bay: Naidu
The tribal population in Odisha was largely untouched by the COVID-19 pandemic and their unique customary practices and traditions have helped them keep the infection at bay, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said on Saturday while citing a study. Naidu was addressing the 50th convocation of Utkal University in the state capital, Bhubneshwar. Here are more details.
India recorded highest daily rise in around six-and-a-half months
His comment came at a time when India recorded 89,129 new COVID-19 cases, the highest daily rise in around six-and-a-half months, taking the nationwide tally of infections to over 1.23 crore.
Tribal people maintain a reasonable distance when they walk: Report
"The report by Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Research and Training Institute (SCSTRTI) noted that by habit, the tribal people maintain a reasonable distance from one another when they walk," Naidu said. "Such safe distancing and hygiene norms, rooted in the tribal culture coupled with the natural food, have helped them stay safe during the pandemic," the Vice President added.
Tribals in Odisha form 23 percent of the state population
Naidu said that universities should focus on these positive aspects of tribal communities and include them in their curriculum. Odisha is home to 62 tribal communities constituting 23 percent of the state's total population.
They live a simple life in harmony with nature: Naidu
"The development and welfare of these tribal communities should be our priority. We should approach them with respect and sensitivity. A paternalistic attitude is wrong," the Vice President said. "Truth is that we have a lot to learn from the tribal communities who live a simple life in harmony with nature," the Vice President added.
Naidu urged institutions to research issues faced by tribals
The Vice President also urged institutions like Utkal University to take up research on issues faced by tribal people and actively contribute to policy formation for their development and well-being. Naidu also focused on the management of natural disasters that the coastal state faces regularly.
Naidu also spoke about management of natural disasters
The Vice President said, "You have seen the regular occurrence of cyclones, floods, and droughts in the state. Therefore, it is imperative to make disaster management an integral part of our education from the early days." "This would prepare us better to face any such calamity in the future. I hope Utkal University will take a lead in this regard," he added.
We can improve human development index on all counts: Naidu
Naidu asked students to be sensitive to the needs of the excluded and said discipline, honesty, and hard work are the keys to success in any field, including public life. "We have great economic potential and can improve the human development index on all counts. We can fight hunger, disease, ignorance, and every other evil that retard our growth," Naidu said.
Naidu praised the history and culture of Odisha
Talking about the rich culture and history of Odisha, the Vice President said that the great land of Kalinga taught the lesson of peace to Emperor Ashoka. He also lauded the daring seafaring merchants of Kalinga, who established trade links with various countries.
