Odisha Minister Inaugurates Sargiful Utsav 2024

Bhubaneswar: Rural Development Minister Narayan Naik inaugurated the Sargiful Utsav 2024 at the Exhibition Ground in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday. The event, organized by the ST & SC Development, Minorities & Backward Classes Welfare Department, celebrates the creativity and talent of ST/SC students across the state.

Addressing the attendees, Naik highlighted the cultural significance of the Sal flower (Sargiful), saying, “Tribals are nature worshippers, and Sargiful has evolved from a food source to a symbol of inspiration and worship.” He emphasized the festival’s aim to showcase the inherent talents and creativity of tribal youth.

Students excelling in various fields were honored during the event. Notable awardees included Mili Tudu (Jagatsinghpur), Suprabha Naik, Mahesh Mahar, Nandini Naik, and others, who received Rs 5,000 cash prizes, certificates, and books from the Minister.

The state-level science exhibition, also inaugurated during the event, features 40 stalls with participation from 80 students and 40 guide teachers. Workshops focusing on themes like ocean conservation, eco-friendly environments, artificial intelligence, Indian space research, and smart classrooms will be held over three days.