New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday commenced a five-day visit to Madhya Pradesh and Odisha, during which she will participate in a range of official, cultural, educational and public welfare programmes. The visit includes engagements focused on tribal empowerment, public health awareness, higher education and environmental conservation.
The President’s tour began with her departure for Madhya Pradesh, where she is scheduled to attend several important events across different districts before travelling to Odisha.
President attends tribal empowerment programme
On the first day of her visit, President Murmu is scheduled to participate in a programme centred on the empowerment of tribal communities through spiritual awakening at Betul in Madhya Pradesh.
After arriving in Indore, she will travel to Betul to attend the event organised by the Brahma Kumaris. The programme aims to promote social upliftment and awareness among tribal communities through spiritual and value-based initiatives.
The President’s participation underscores the importance of inclusive development and empowerment of tribal populations, particularly in regions with significant indigenous communities.
Visit to Omkareshwar Temple
Later in the day, President Murmu will visit the renowned Omkareshwar Temple, one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites in the country.
She is also scheduled to participate in the evening aarti at the temple. The visit forms part of her cultural and spiritual engagements during the Madhya Pradesh tour.
The Omkareshwar shrine, situated on the banks of the Narmada River, attracts thousands of devotees annually and holds significant religious importance.
Focus on sickle cell anaemia awareness
On June 19, the President will attend a programme organised to mark International Sickle Cell Anaemia Day.
The event will focus on raising awareness about sickle cell disease and strengthening efforts to combat the condition, which disproportionately affects tribal populations in several parts of India.
The central and state governments have been undertaking various initiatives aimed at early diagnosis, treatment and prevention of the disease, particularly among vulnerable communities.
The President’s participation is expected to draw attention to ongoing healthcare initiatives and the need for greater public awareness.
International Yoga Day and university convocation
As part of her official engagements, President Murmu will participate in International Yoga Day celebrations in Jabalpur on June 21.
The annual event promotes the importance of yoga in maintaining physical and mental well-being and is observed across the country and around the world.
During her stay in Jabalpur, the President will also attend the 36th convocation ceremony of Rani Durgavati University as the Chief Guest. She is expected to address graduating students and faculty members during the event.
The convocation will mark an important academic occasion for the university and its students.
Visit to Kuno National Park
The President’s itinerary also includes a visit to Kuno National Park, one of India’s most significant wildlife conservation destinations.
The national park has gained national and international attention in recent years due to efforts to reintroduce cheetahs into India as part of a major wildlife conservation initiative.
Officials said the visit will provide an opportunity to review conservation efforts and promote awareness about biodiversity protection.
Security tightened for presidential visit
Meanwhile, authorities in Betul and other locations scheduled to host the President have implemented extensive security arrangements.
Betul District Collector Dr Saurabh Sanjay Sonawane has issued orders imposing temporary restrictions, including a ban on drone operations and limitations on the movement of heavy vehicles during the President’s visit.
Security personnel have been deployed at key locations to ensure the smooth conduct of all programmes and maintain public safety.
The five-day visit is expected to highlight issues related to tribal welfare, healthcare, education, spirituality and environmental conservation while strengthening the President’s engagement with communities across Madhya Pradesh and Odisha.