International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples observed in Tripura
Agartala, August 9
The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples was observed at Sukanta Academy in Agartala on Sunday, with a focus on recognising the invaluable contribution of indigenous communities to forest conservation, biodiversity protection, traditional knowledge and cultural heritage.
The programme was jointly organised by the IGDC CREFLAT Project, SCATFORM Project and ELEMENT Project under the Forest Department, Government of Tripura, under the theme 'Indigenous People - The Custodians of Forest Ecosystems in Tripura.'
Tripura Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma attended the programme as the Chief Guest, while RK Samal, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of the Forest Force, was present as the Guest of Honour. Senior forest officers and officials of the State Forest Department also attended the event.
Around 600 representatives of indigenous communities, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Village Community Workers, project officials, forest officials, cultural teams, eminent personalities, media representatives and other stakeholders participated in the celebration.
The programme highlighted the important role of indigenous communities in protecting and sustainably managing Tripura's forest ecosystems. The significance of traditional knowledge related to Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs), biodiversity conservation, sustainable harvesting, traditional livelihoods and forest-based value chains was also emphasised.
Bhanumati G, IFS, CEO & PD, SCATFORM Project, welcomed the dignitaries and participants and stressed the need for collective efforts to protect forests, preserve indigenous knowledge and traditions, strengthen sustainable livelihoods and ensure meaningful participation of indigenous communities in the conservation and sustainable management of natural resources.
As part of the celebration, SHGs and community representatives displayed traditional products, indigenous crafts, NTFP-based products and other livelihood items, providing a platform to promote community-based enterprises and strengthen market linkages.
Nine eminent personalities were also felicitated for their contributions to literature, social service, music and instrumental arts, and for their efforts towards preserving and promoting Tripura's rich indigenous heritage.
The event featured colourful cultural performances showcasing the diverse traditions and cultural identity of Tripura's indigenous communities. Performances including Lebang Bumani, Mamita Dance, Mosok Sumani and Kherabui Dance added to the celebration.
Addressing the gathering, Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma emphasised that indigenous communities are not merely beneficiaries of forest-based development initiatives but are key custodians and partners in the conservation and sustainable management of forest ecosystems. He stressed that strengthening livelihoods through sustainable NTFP management, value addition, enterprise development and better market access can contribute to forest conservation, climate resilience and inclusive rural development.
Samal highlighted the significance of the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples and the deep relationship between indigenous communities and the forests of Tripura.
He reaffirmed the Forest Department's commitment to working in partnership with indigenous communities and development projects to promote sustainable forest management and strengthen forest-based livelihoods.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by S Prabhu, CEO & PD, IGDC CREFLAT Project, who called for greater collaboration among government departments, development projects, community institutions and other stakeholders to protect indigenous knowledge, promote sustainable livelihoods and preserve Tripura's rich cultural and ecological heritage for future generations.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Heartwarming to see such a large gathering - 600 representatives! The cultural performances like Lebang Bumani and Mosok Sumani are so important for keeping our traditions alive. But I hope this isn't just a one-day celebration. The Forest Department needs to ensure these communities have real decision-making power year-round, not just symbolic recognition.
An excellent initiative. The fact that Tripura is integrating indigenous knowledge with modern conservation approaches is commendable. The emphasis on value chains and market access will help these communities thrive economically while preserving their cultural identity. This is the kind of development model we need across the country.
As someone from the Northeast, this makes me proud. But honestly, I wish our leaders would pay more attention to the ground realities. Felicitating 9 eminent personalities is nice, but what about the basic rights and land ownership issues that many indigenous communities in Tripura still face? Recognition is good, but action on the ground matters more.
Wonderful programme! The integration of SHGs, Village Community Workers, and community enterprises is exactly the sustainable approach Indigenous peoples deserve. Showing traditional products and crafts at such platforms helps them access larger markets without losing their cultural authenticity. 🌿
Good event, but I have a doubt - the Minister said "indigenous communities are key custodians", well, they are! But why is this treated as news? The Forest Department needs to formally document traditional knowledge and ensure benefits sharing is fair. Without a robust framework, these celebrations are just photo opportunities for officials.
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