Latest news with #WorldIndigenousPeoplesDay
Hans India
a day ago
- Health
- Hans India
Tribals urged to preserve culture and heritage
Khammam: In a vibrant celebration of World Indigenous Peoples Day, local tribals gathered at the Adivasi Girijan Bhavan in Bhadrachalam on Saturday to highlight the importance of preserving tribal culture, traditions, and self-reliance. The event was marked by cultural performances, a rally, and addresses by key public representatives and tribal welfare officials. Bhadrachalam MLA Tellam Venkata Rao, the chief guest, emphasised the global relevance of tribal communities in preserving natural ecosystems and cultural diversity. 'The indigenous communities living in forest regions have set an example to the world by safeguarding forests, rivers, and wildlife while maintaining their traditions and sustainable lifestyles,' he said. Recalling the contributions of tribal freedom fighters like Alluri Sitarama Raju, Guntalu Dora, Mallu Dora, and Komaram Bheem, the MLA highlighted that the United Nations declared August 9 as World Indigenous Peoples Day in 1982 in the Netherlands, recognising the rights and heritage of indigenous populations worldwide. 'We must continue to celebrate this day with pride and ensure that tribal communities are not marginalised but protected and empowered,' he added. The MLA also outlined several state government initiatives aimed at tribal welfare through the ITDA (Integrated Tribal Development Agency), including improvements in education, healthcare, agriculture, and nutrition. He said that tribal welfare hostels are now offering enhanced diet charges, better quality cosmetics, and nutritious food through an upgraded menu. 'When tribal students pursue education seriously, they can become doctors, engineers, or anything they aspire to. From Bhadrachalam itself, six tribal girls secured medical seats this year,' he proudly noted. Addressing the need for accessible healthcare in remote tribal areas, he said that Community Health Centres (CHCs) have been set up in Cherla and Manuguru with advanced medical equipment, including dialysis facilities. To support tribal farmers, the government is promoting high-value crops like bamboo, moringa, and palm oil through subsidies. Aquaculture is also being encouraged as a source of sustainable income. 'We are also facilitating skill development and setting up small-scale industries to ensure economic self-reliance for tribal youth,' he added. Earlier in the day, ITDA Project Officer B Rahul, Assistant Project Officer General David Raj, and tribal leaders paid floral tributes at the Ambedkar Junction to martyrs who fought for tribal rights. The tribal flag was hoisted and a rally was conducted through the town. Speaking on the occasion, Project Officer B Rahul reiterated the government's commitment to tribal education, including the establishment of ashram schools, gurukuls, and hostels across the region. He urged tribal youth to take pride in their native languages, like Koya, and safeguard their traditional knowledge systems. Recognising his contributions to the protection of tribal language, culture, and educational development, various tribal associations felicitated PO B Rahul with shawls and honours during the ceremony. The event concluded with colourful tribal dance performances, celebrating the diverse heritage of the region. District Collector, Sub-Collector, and other officials participated in the felicitation of tribal leaders who have been instrumental in community development.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Tribals in Anakapalli district protest demanding roads
1 2 Visakhapatnam: Tribals from Jeelugulova and Sompuram Bandha villages in Madugula mandal of Anakapalli district organised a symbolic donkey yatra on Saturday to mark World Indigenous Peoples Day and highlight their ongoing struggle for basic road infrastructure. According to the protestors, despite living in officially recognised settlements and having been granted housing and utility access, they remain cut off from essential transport facilities. "Our donkey protest was meant to highlight the gap between govt promises and ground realities. Without proper roads, emergencies such as medical treatment and childbirth turn into life-threatening ordeals," they said. "Over four years have passed since two-room houses were sanctioned for 23 tribal families on Saamalamma Hill, yet the promised land pattas have not been issued. Bureaucratic apathy, frequent transfer of officials, and unfulfilled assurances have only compounded our problems. Although the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) intervened and claimed progress, conditions on the ground remain bleak. Further, tribal lands are being encroached upon by non-tribal entities, often with official complicity. This failure to protect tribal rights, while simultaneously celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day, exposes a deep hypocrisy. Our protest is not just a demand for roads, but for our dignity, recognition, and justice. Immediate field inspections and administrative accountability are urgently needed," they added. CPM leader K. Govinda Rao, tribal leader E Narasimhulu, and others participated in the protest. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Raksha Bandhan wishes , messages and quotes !
Time of India
6 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Adivasi Mela celebrations to be subdued this year
Ranchi: The annual Adivasi Mela, typically held around World Indigenous Peoples Day (August 9), is likely to be observed on a subdued scale this year following the demise of veteran tribal leader Shibu Soren. While the state govt had initially planned an elaborate celebration across all districts and few other states too, concerned officials on Tuesday said the format will no longer be spread over three days. "Just a symbolic event may take place, but all works related to it has been halted now," said a source in IPRD department. This year's theme, "Indigenous Peoples and AI: Defending Rights, Shaping Futures," focuses on tribal self-reliance and cultural pride. "In light of the passing of Shibu Soren ji, we are reviewing public events and performances to ensure they reflect the mood of the state. Even if the event takes place, it will be low-key now," said an IPRD official. Meanwhile, at Deoghar's Shravani Mela, the drone and laser light show intended to visually depict the spiritual and cultural history of Baba Baidyanath Dham has also been postponed, informed IPRD officials.
