In a vibrant ceremony, Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi officially opened the annual Adivasi Mela, a highly anticipated 11-day event showcasing the diverse and rich culture of the state's tribal communities. The Minister for ST and SC Development, Minorities and Backward Classes Welfare, Nityananda Gond, was also present at the inauguration, held at the Adivasi Exhibition Ground in the city's Unit-I area.
For the residents of Bhubaneswar, this fair is a delightful opportunity to experience the unique lifestyle, haat (market), art, craft, and cuisine of the tribal communities. It is a celebration of the state's pride and heritage, as well as a platform to promote the simple yet extraordinary way of life and exceptional artistic talents of the tribals.
The fair also features daily performances of traditional tribal dances and music, adding to the festive and lively atmosphere. In his speech, Chief Minister Majhi, who himself comes from a tribal family, emphasized the importance of education and awareness among the tribal community about their rights.
He also highlighted the efforts of the state government in creating the South Odisha and North Odisha Development Councils, which aim to bring together and uplift the tribal communities in these regions. These councils will focus on addressing critical issues related to their lives, livelihoods, and basic challenges.
Majhi commended the success of the Koraput Coffee brand, produced by the particularly vulnerable tribal groups, and expressed his pride in the tribals who bring recognition to the state through their hard work and talents. He assured the community that the government is committed to protecting their land, forests, and water resources.
The Chief Minister also called upon the tribal community to strike a balance between preserving their traditions and embracing development, stating that empowerment is key to progress. He urged them to actively participate in the state's development journey and emphasized that their contributions are crucial for the state's growth.
Speaking from his own tribal background, Majhi revealed that the previous government had attempted to allocate tribal land to non-tribals, but he halted this plan upon taking office in 2024. He also highlighted the economic opportunities provided by the Adivasi Mela, where tribal products are showcased and sold, benefiting the community.
Overall, the Adivasi Mela not only serves as a cultural extravaganza but also plays a significant role in promoting and preserving the state's tribal heritage and providing economic opportunities for the tribal communities. It is a testimony to the state's commitment to celebrating and uplifting its diverse communities.
