Bhubaneswar: The 11-day Adivasi Mela, one of Odisha’s largest showcases of tribal culture, began in Bhubaneswar on Sunday with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurating the event and urging members of the tribal community to become educated and aware of their constitutional and legal rights.
The annual fair highlights the lifestyle, art, craft, cuisine and traditions of Odisha’s diverse tribal communities. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the state government is committed to the all-round development of tribal regions while preserving their cultural identity.
Majhi emphasised the formation of regional development councils to ensure targeted growth in tribal-dominated areas and said special focus is being given to the protection of tribal land, forest and water resources. He reiterated that tribal land would not be allotted to non-tribals, underlining the government’s stand on safeguarding the rights of indigenous communities.
Stressing the need to balance tradition with development, the Chief Minister said tribal communities must play an active role in Odisha’s overall progress. He added that awareness, education and participation are key to ensuring that development initiatives reach the grassroots without eroding cultural heritage.
The Adivasi Mela will continue for 11 days, featuring exhibitions, cultural performances, traditional food stalls and live demonstrations of tribal art and handicrafts, drawing visitors from across the state.
-OdishaAge
