Sona Devi University celebrated Jharkhand State Foundation Day with great enthusiasm on 15 November. Marking the completion of 25 years of the state’s formation, the university organized several events. During the program held at the Vivekananda Auditorium, Chancellor Shri Prabhakar Singh emphasized that everyone must perform their duties with hard work, dedication, and honesty, and contribute to the progress of the state. He said that only when Jharkhand advances will its distinct identity be strengthened and the state’s name shine.
On the occasion of State Foundation Day cum Tribal Pride Day, the Chancellor extended greetings to all Deans, Heads of Departments, Assistant Professors, and students on the sacred occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Dharti Aaba Bhagwan Birsa Munda. He said that as Jharkhand completes 25 years, it is time to reflect on its future direction. Drawing inspiration from the lives of the state’s brave freedom fighters, he urged everyone to contribute to its development. He recalled the challenges faced during the formation of the state and noted the need to understand the circumstances under which Jharkhand was created. Despite being rich in mineral resources, the state continues to lag in education, health, industry, and development. He stressed the importance of collective responsibility to ensure progress, which would honor the sacrifices of the great freedom fighters. Shri Singh encouraged students to stay aware of their rights and raise their voice against injustice.
Meanwhile, Registrar Dr. Gulab Singh Azad extended greetings on the 25th State Foundation Day and acquainted students with the historical background preceding the formation of Jharkhand. He discussed the region’s condition from the colonial era to the present and highlighted the contributions of great warriors such as Tilka Manjhi, Veer Budhu Bhagat, Sidho-Kanhu, and Phulo-Jhano. He urged students to take inspiration from their courage and sacrifice and participate actively in the state’s development. While discussing the current scenario, he emphasized the role of policies in shaping growth, citing the development trajectories of Chhattisgarh and Uttarakhand—states formed alongside Jharkhand—as examples. He noted the immense potential for tourism-based industries in the region and reminded everyone of their responsibility to protect the land earned through struggle and sacrifice. He called for collective efforts to move Jharkhand forward and to remain aware of one’s rights while standing firmly against injustice.
On this special occasion, Assistant Professor of Mathematics, Krishnendu Dutta, informed students about the unique features of various districts of Jharkhand, including its mineral wealth, natural beauty, and religious sites. Kumari Nikita, Assistant Professor in the Sanskrit Department, recited a poem titled “Jharkhand Ki Dharti Bol Uthi.” B. Pharma student Kaushlendra Yadav shared his views on the state’s development, while student Gayatri and her team performed a captivating folk dance. Winners of various competitions held during the Diwali Fair were also awarded certificates.
The program commenced by paying floral tribute to the portrait of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, remembering his struggle, sacrifice, and contribution. The Vivekananda Auditorium stood witness to the grand celebration of Birsa Munda’s 150th birth anniversary and the silver jubilee of Jharkhand’s formation. As part of the week-long Foundation Day celebrations at Sona Devi University, multiple competitions were organized.
On 12 November, an essay competition was held with eleven participants. On 13 November, a poster-making competition saw participation from students of various departments. The rangoli competition on 14 November witnessed enthusiastic participation from many students. Lakshmi Murmu, Sangeeta Baske, and Seema Mahato secured first place in the rangoli contest.
According to Dr. Kanchan Sinha, Chairperson of the History Department and convenor of the event, Anshu Kumari (B. Pharma, 5th semester) won first place in the essay competition. Revati Kumari (Bachelor of Library Science, 1st year) stood second, and Kaushlendra Yadav (B. Pharma, 5th semester) secured third place. In the poster-making competition, Rahul Nayak (BFA, 3rd semester) won first place, while Jaydev Das (B. Pharma) secured second place. Third place was jointly awarded to Abhijeet Kumar (B. Pharma) and Mohan Yadav (D. Pharma). The program concluded with the national anthem.
