Celebrating Tribal Heritage, Together

Tata Steel Foundation observes International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples

~ Padma Shri Tulasi Munda graced the occasion as Chief Guest

~ Similar event organised at Bamnipal

Bhubaneshwar, August 10, 2024: The ‘International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples’ was celebrated by Tata Steel Foundation at Conference Hall, Centre for Youth & Social Development (CYSD), Bhubaneswar on Friday. The event was marked by the participation of over 100 individuals from tribal communities from in and around the city, who shared their experiences and aspirations regarding the preservation and propagation of their rich cultural heritage, wisdom, and traditions.

Noted social activist, Padma Shri Tulasi Munda graced the occasion as Chief Guest along with Dr Aurobindo Behera, IAS (Retd.), Ambika Nanda, Head CSR (Odisha), Tata Steel Foundation, and other senior officials of Tata Steel Foundation.

The event began with Shishir Dash, Lead of Urban Habitat Division in Odisha, setting the context and underscoring the importance of the day. He highlighted the significant work undertaken by the Tata Steel Foundation in the area of conservation of tribal identity and tribal development, particularly mentioning Samvaad, a flagship initiative that fosters dialogue on key issues ailing tribal communities nationwide. A video on Samvaad was showcased, emphasising its role in bringing together diverse tribal voices.

In her address, Padma Shri Tulasi Munda, the Chief Guest, shared her inspiring journey of advocating for Adivasi rights, which she has championed early on from her childhood. She also emphasised the need for continued efforts from organisations and leaders to promote the rights of tribal communities, stressing the importance of collaboration between communities and organisations.

On the occasion, Dr Aurobindo Behera, IAS (Retd.), the Chief Speaker, addressed the youth, encouraging them to take bold actions to protect their cultural values and rights. He highlighted the deep connection between indigenous communities and their natural environment, particularly their relationship with ‘Jal-Jangal-Jameen’ (water, forest, and land).

Speaking on the occasion, Ambika Prasad Nanda, Head CSR, Odisha, emphasised on the moral duty of humankind to improve the world by valuing the wisdom, culture, and traditions of tribal communities and taking cue from those to find solutions to developmental challenges the planet faces today. He also highlighted Samvaad’s role in uniting over 200 Indian tribes to share their invaluable wisdom.

The event concluded with cultural performances by tribal communities residing in the slums of Bhubaneswar, showcasing their traditions and further enriching the day. Participants expressed their enthusiasm for such inclusive events, which provide a platform for dialogue, exchange of ideas, and mutual encouragement.

A similar vibrant and engaging celebration was also organised at Talapada village near Tata Steel’s Ferro Alloys plant in Bamnipal in Keonjhar district, focusing and building on the theme ‘Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact.’

Adarsh Agrawal, Head, Ferro Alloys Plant, Bamnipal, attended the event as Chief Guest. The event that saw participation from over 150 members of local PVTG communities, come together to put up an exuberant cultural program filled with entertaining performances.

In his address, Adarsh Agrawal urged the participants to realise the wealth of knowledge found within tribal traditions, cultures and wisdom, and asked everyone to take active steps in preserving and promoting tribal culture and natural heritage. The day ended with winners receiving awards for their performances.