According to the state government, the President will attend the inaugural ceremony of Bastar Pandum, a major cultural event showcasing the region’s tribal heritage, arts and traditions. The programme is expected to draw participants and visitors from across the Bastar division and beyond, placing Jagdalpur at the centre of national attention for the day.
In view of the President’s proposed visit, Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel recently chaired a high-level review meeting at Mahanadi Bhavan in Raipur. Senior administrative and police officials attended the meeting, during which arrangements related to security, traffic management, medical preparedness and emergency response were discussed in detail.
The Chief Secretary also reviewed preparations through a video conference with the Bastar district collector, directing officials to complete all pending arrangements in Jagdalpur within stipulated timelines. Emphasis was laid on coordination among district administration, police, health services and other departments to ensure the smooth conduct of the event.
Senior officials have been instructed to establish a multi-layered security cover at the programme venue and along the President’s route. Traffic diversions and crowd management plans are being finalised to minimise inconvenience to the public while maintaining strict security protocols. Medical teams, ambulances and emergency facilities are also being placed on standby as part of standard presidential visit arrangements.
The Raipur district administration has been directed to ensure seamless arrangements related to the President’s arrival and departure, including coordination with airport authorities and security agencies. Officials said rehearsals and mock drills would be conducted ahead of the visit to test preparedness.
Bastar Pandum is considered a key cultural initiative aimed at promoting and preserving the rich tribal identity of the Bastar region. The event features traditional dance, music, handicrafts and community participation from various tribal groups. The President’s presence is expected to lend national visibility to the cultural heritage of the region.
This will be President Murmu’s visit to Bastar during her tenure, underscoring the importance of tribal regions in national discourse. Officials said the administration is working to ensure that the visit proceeds smoothly and reflects the state’s commitment to hosting high-profile constitutional events with efficiency and decorum.
