Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram kicked off the Tribes Art Fest 2026 at Travancore Palace in New Delhi, emphasizing the government’s commitment to safeguarding tribal heritage while promoting economic empowerment. Oram highlighted key initiatives like PM JANMAN and DAJGUA aimed at supporting tribal groups, expanding educational opportunities through Eklavya Model Residential Schools, and enhancing market connections via TRIFED.
The festival, held in partnership with FICCI and NGMA, features over 75 tribal artists showcasing more than 1,000 artworks representing 30 diverse tribal art forms. The event aims to establish sustainable livelihoods by connecting artists with collectors, galleries, corporates, and design institutions, transcending mere symbolic celebrations.
Notable dignitaries present included Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durgadas Uikey, Secretary of Ministry of Tribal Affairs Ranjana Chopra, and other officials. The festival also saw the unveiling of the official TAF Catalogue and the launch of a video encapsulating the festival’s essence and artistic diversity, marking the official commencement of Tribes Art Fest 2026.
The festival also featured a captivating display of tribal musical traditions by Khmih Creative Society from Shillong, Meghalaya, blending tribal rhythms and instruments with contemporary expressions. Uikey emphasized the importance of such events in empowering tribal communities to showcase their heritage and artistic prowess independently, fostering cultural confidence and creating dignified livelihood opportunities.
Secretary Ranjana Chopra highlighted the festival’s role in translating tribal art promotion into tangible equity, dignity, and sustainability, recognizing the invaluable contribution of India’s tribal communities in preserving unique art traditions rooted in deep knowledge systems and ecological wisdom. The festival aims to provide fair market conditions for tribal artists to receive due recognition and value for their work, fostering direct engagement with various stakeholders to enhance market linkages and opportunities for economic empowerment.
