The engagements will primarily take place in Darjeeling, with one programme being inaugurated virtually at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur.
Darjeeling Hill Festival to Mark 150 Years of Vande Mataram
On March 6, President Murmu will launch the Darjeeling Hill Festival, an event organised to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the iconic national song “Vande Mataram.” The festival aims to celebrate India’s cultural diversity, artistic traditions, and historical legacy.
The programme is expected to bring together artists, cultural performers, scholars, and community leaders from across the region. Through music, dance, and cultural exhibitions, the festival will highlight the historical and emotional significance of “Vande Mataram” in India’s freedom movement.
The President will also inaugurate an exhibition titled “Root & Rhythms” at Lok Bhavan in Darjeeling. The exhibition will showcase traditional art, cultural heritage, and indigenous artistic expressions from the Himalayan region and beyond.
Officials say the exhibition aims to promote awareness of regional cultural traditions while encouraging younger generations to connect with India’s rich heritage.
Women’s Leadership Programme at IIT Kharagpur
During the same day, President Murmu will virtually inaugurate the Platinum Jubilee Flagship Programme on Women’s Leadership and Empowerment at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur.
The programme is being launched as part of the institute’s platinum jubilee celebrations and is designed to promote leadership opportunities for women across academic, professional, and public spheres.
The initiative aims to encourage research, mentorship, and policy dialogue around gender equality and leadership development. Experts from academia, industry, and government are expected to participate in the programme in the coming months.
More information on the initiative can be accessed through official updates published by the Press Information Bureau at pib.gov.in and the official website of IIT Kharagpur.
President to Attend International Santal Conference
On March 7, the President will attend the 9th International Santal Conference organised by the International Santal Council in Darjeeling.
The conference brings together scholars, community leaders, cultural activists, and policymakers to discuss issues related to the Santal community, one of India’s largest tribal groups.
Discussions at the conference are expected to focus on cultural preservation, language promotion, education, and socio-economic development of indigenous communities.
The event will also showcase Santal cultural traditions, including music, dance, and folklore, highlighting the community’s rich heritage and contributions to India’s diverse cultural landscape.
Strengthening Cultural and Community Engagement
President Murmu’s participation in these events reflects the importance of recognising India’s cultural diversity and empowering communities through education and leadership initiatives.
The visit is also expected to strengthen engagement with tribal communities and cultural organisations, while encouraging academic institutions to promote inclusive leadership programmes.
Observers note that the President has consistently emphasised the role of education, cultural preservation, and women’s empowerment in India’s development journey.
The two-day visit to West Bengal is therefore likely to highlight these priorities through cultural celebration, academic collaboration, and community dialogue.
