Tripura observed World Indigenous Peoples’ Day 2026 at Sukanta Academy, highlighting indigenous communities as guardians of forests. Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma stressed hill-plains cooperation, while nine personalities were honoured for contributions to literature, culture, folk music and social service.
Tripura observed World Indigenous Peoples’ Day 2026 with a special programme at Sukanta Academy, highlighting the vital role of indigenous communities in protecting forests, preserving biodiversity and sustaining the state’s rich cultural heritage. The programme was organised around this year’s theme, “Indigenous Communities – Guardians of Tripura’s Forest Ecosystem.”
The event was jointly organised by the IGDC Cluster Project, SCATFORM Project and ELEMENT Project under the Tripura Forest Department. The programme brought together government officials, representatives of indigenous communities, cultural personalities, Self-Help Groups and tribal artists to recognise the contributions of indigenous people to the state’s environmental, social and cultural development.
Inaugurating the programme, Tripura Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma said indigenous communities deserve recognition and respect in every sphere of life, particularly for their longstanding role in protecting forest resources. He emphasised the deep and harmonious relationship between tribal communities and forests, noting that indigenous people have traditionally depended on natural resources while also contributing to their conservation.
Debbarma stressed that the participation of indigenous communities is essential for the conservation and sustainable management of forest ecosystems. He also highlighted the rich heritage, traditions, customs and cultural practices of Tripura’s tribal population, describing them as an important part of the state’s identity.
The Forest Minister also called for stronger cooperation between Tripura’s hill and plain areas, saying that development would require both regions to work together. He said political differences should not become a reason for division and underlined the economic importance of cooperation between the hills and plains.
“Sometimes politics teaches us to divide. But economics teaches us that we should go together,” Debbarma said, stressing that the hills and plains need each other for Tripura’s overall progress.
He said the observance of World Indigenous Peoples’ Day provided an important platform to discuss the relationship between indigenous communities, biodiversity, nature and forests. According to the minister, the traditional knowledge and practices of indigenous communities can play a significant role in protecting the natural environment and promoting sustainable development.
Speaking at the programme, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) R. K. Samal explained the significance of World Indigenous Peoples’ Day and highlighted the diverse cultures and traditions of Tripura’s 19 tribal communities. He underlined the importance of recognising their contribution to the state’s cultural and environmental heritage.
The programme also featured an honouring ceremony in which nine distinguished personalities were recognised for their contributions to literature, culture, social service and performing arts, including poetry and folk music. The recognition highlighted the role of individuals who have contributed to preserving and promoting Tripura’s cultural traditions.
Among those present at the event were Bhanumati G., CEO of the SCATFORM Project, K. Sashi Kumar, Secretary to the Government of Tripura, and noted poet and litterateur Bikash Roy Debbarma, along with other officials and dignitaries.
Representatives of various Self-Help Groups displayed traditional tribal handicrafts, providing visitors with an opportunity to view locally produced items reflecting the artistic skills and cultural traditions of indigenous communities.
| Also Read: Blood Donation Is a Unique Commitment to Humanity: CM |
The programme also included vibrant cultural performances by tribal artists. The performances showcased the traditional music, dance and cultural expressions of Tripura’s indigenous communities, adding a strong cultural dimension to the observance.
The World Indigenous Peoples’ Day programme ultimately highlighted the interconnectedness of indigenous communities, forests, biodiversity and cultural heritage, while reinforcing the call for cooperation between Tripura’s hills and plains for inclusive and sustainable development.
