The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is an occasion to create awareness about protecting the fundamental rights of indigenous peoples, preserving their languages, culture and traditions, and eliminating social discrimination, said Tripura Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma.
The Minister was speaking at a programme organised by the Tripura Government at the Sukanta Academy Auditorium in Agartala to mark the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples.
Observed every year on August 9, the day seeks to promote and protect the rights, traditions, languages and cultural heritage of indigenous peoples across the world. The observance was initiated by the United Nations.
Chief Principal Conservator of Forests R. K. Shyamol also highlighted the significance of the day and stressed the need to preserve the rich cultural heritage of indigenous communities.
The programme featured colourful cultural performances by various indigenous communities of Tripura. Traditional performances, including Lebang Bumani, Mamita, Malsum community hunting dance and Garia dance, showcased the vibrant cultural heritage of the state’s indigenous communities.
A group of local artists also presented a Kokborok song during the programme.
On the occasion, nine distinguished personalities, including poets, writers and social workers, were felicitated for their outstanding contributions to society.
