The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), Ministry of Tribal Affairs, successfully concluded the 6th National EMRS Cultural & Literary Fest and Kala Utsav – UDBHAV 2025 at KL University, Vaddeswaram, Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh, on 5th December 2025. The fest was organised by NESTS and hosted by the Andhra Pradesh Tribal Welfare Residential Educational Institutions Society (APTWREIS–Gurukulam) from 3rd to 5th December 2025, with extensive institutional support from KL University.

The valedictory ceremony was graced by Hon’ble Minister for Tribal Welfare and Women & Child Welfare, Government of Andhra Pradesh, Smt. G. Sandhya Rani; Hon’ble Minister for Social Welfare, Disabled and Senior Citizen Welfare, Sachivalayam & Village Volunteer, Government of Andhra Pradesh, Dr. D. S. Swamy; Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Culture, Cinematography and Incharge Minister for Guntur, Government of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Kandula Durgesh. Shri M. M. Nayak, Secretary, Social Welfare & Tribal Welfare Department,, Government of Andhra Pradesh, was also present. Their presence added dignity to the event and served as a source of inspiration for the participants.

In their addresses, the dignitaries commended the outstanding performances of tribal students and underscored the commitment of both the Central and State Governments toward strengthening tribal education, cultural preservation, and empowerment. They highlighted that platforms like UDBHAV not only showcase the rich tribal heritage of India but also serve as catalysts for nurturing self-confidence, leadership, and national-level exposure among tribal youth.

The fest was conducted under the guidance of Shri Ajeet Kumar Srivastava (IRAS), Commissioner, NESTS, and Shri M. M. Nayak(IAS), Secretary, Social Welfare & Tribal Welfare Department, Government of Andhra Pradesh. The event was executed under the leadership of Organising Secretary Smt. M. Gowthami (IAS), Secretary, APTWREIS (Gurukulam), supported by her teams and officials from both NESTS and APTWREIS. Their coordinated efforts ensured the smooth conduct of all activities.

A total of 1,558 students from 22 States and Union Territories participated in the fest, including 524 male and 1,024 female students. Their participation was supported by 45 team leaders, 178 escorts, 22 contingent managers, 22 liaison officers, 10 officials, 19 NESTS officers and officials, 137 sub-committee members, 48 jury members, and 60 State Officers and APTWREIS officials. Over three days, students competed in 49 cultural, literary, creative, and performing arts events, reflecting the vibrancy and diversity of India’s tribal communities. The schedule covered 18 events on Day 1, 22 on Day 2, and 9 on Day 3, each showcasing exceptional talent, cultural depth, and artistic expression.

The closing ceremony featured the announcement of results across various categories. Telangana secured the top position in the overall medal tally, followed by Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh. A total of 105 First Prizes, 105 Second Prizes, and 105 Third Prizes were awarded, along with one Overall State Championship. All participating students will receive Participation Certificates in recognition of their dedication and involvement.

Winners of UDBHAV 2025 from 12 identified categories will now represent EMRSs at the National Kala Utsav to be held at YASHADA, Pune, where teams from across India will participate. Tribal handicrafts, visual arts, traditional performances, and indigenous creative expressions made significant contributions to the fest, highlighting the cultural wealth and artistic traditions preserved within tribal societies.

UDBHAV 2025 reinforced the vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister for Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas by enabling tribal students to gain national exposure, build confidence, and celebrate their cultural identities. The fest further highlighted the transformative role of EMRSs in bridging developmental gaps, strengthening academic and cultural capacities, and nurturing leadership among tribal youth.

With the successful completion of the sixth edition, NESTS reaffirms its commitment to advancing holistic education, cultural empowerment, and creative opportunities for tribal students across the country. The organisation remains dedicated to expanding platforms that recognise indigenous talent and encourage excellence in cultural and literary domains.

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RN/