Raipur, jan 26 : President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to visit Jagdalpur on February 7 to attend the divisional-level inaugural ceremony of ‘Bastar Pandum 2026’, a mega tribal cultural festival. The visit, which underscores the Union government’s focus on tribal heritage, has prompted the Chhattisgarh administration to initiate large-scale security and logistical preparations.
Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel on Tuesday chaired a high-level review meeting at the Mantralaya to oversee the arrangements. During the meeting, the Chief Secretary issued strict directives to ensure foolproof security, advanced medical facilities, and seamless transportation for the presidential entourage. He conducted a virtual inspection of ground-level readiness with Bastar Collector Akash Chhikara and briefed the Raipur Collector on administrative support required from the state capital.
The Bastar Pandum festival is a significant initiative by the state government aimed at preserving and promoting the indigenous traditions, arts, and crafts of the Bastar region. The divisional-level event marks the final phase of the festival, which celebrates the cultural identity of the tribal communities.
The meeting was attended by senior bureaucrats, including Secretary of Public Relations and Culture Dr Rohit Yadav, Secretary of General Administration Avinash Champawat, and Home Secretary Neha Champawat. Officials from the health and public works departments were also directed to ensure that all infrastructure at the venue is completed well ahead of the scheduled visit.