Indian Economy News

Aadi Mahotsav–National Tribal Festival concluded with sales of more than US$ 360,000 (Rs. 3 crores) realised by artisans

Aadi Mahotsav-National Tribal Festival successfully concluded with sales of more than US$ 360,000 (Rs. 3 crores). Aadi Mahotsav was organised from February 16-27, 2023 at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi.

While addressing the event, the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Mr. Arjun Munda said that the tribals have been conserving and preserving natural resources since time immemorial. According to the Minister, they serve as environmental defenders, which is urgent given the effects of climate change and global warming. He further added that the tribal people have a crucial part to play in this situation by living a natural and environmentally friendly lifestyle.

Mr. Arjun Munda said that it is a matter of great pride for tribals that the Prime Minister inaugurated the Aadi Mahotsav, interacted with them, and showed keen interest in their products. The Aadi Mahotsav is special since it sells products derived from the jungle and jameen, which are natural and organic.

It should be noted that 29 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) from nine States and UTs participated in the event, as informed by the Union Minister and an exclusive pavilion for the sale and display of Van Dhan products was also put up and 39 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras from 17 States/UTs also participated in this Mahotsav.

He said that as per the Prime Minister’s vision and the food habits of tribals, millets stalls were set up and a good sale is recorded of the millets and millet-based food from these stalls. Union Minister also said that the aim is to provide a market to the self-help groups (SHGs) producing in far-flung areas and uphold the spirit of ‘Ek Bharath Shrestha Bharat’. Further, he stated that the tribal way of life contributes to sustainability because it is the way of life which is conducive to environment, humanity and the whole planet.

The National Health Authority (NHA) constructed a canopy in the Dhyan Chand stadium for Aadi Mahotsav beginning on February 22, 2023. More than 4,000 visitors came to the NHA booth throughout the course of these six days and asked questions regarding both NHA schemes. More than 600 Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) cards for craftsmen and visitors, as well as 16 Ayushman Bharat cards for artists from various states, were made during this time.

The festival's theme was ‘A Celebration of the Spirit of Tribal Entrepreneurship, Crafts, Culture, Cuisine and Commerce’ which embodies the fundamental essence of tribal life. With 234 stalls, the festival showcased and sold a variety of tribal handicrafts, handloom, paintings, jewellery, cane and bamboo, pottery, food & natural products, gifts & selections, tribal cuisine, and more.

The Aadi Mahotsav featured around 1,011 tribal artisans, artists, healers, chefs, and cultural groups. 38 booths set up by tribal cooks and artisans from 13 states and UTs showcased and sold millet-based foods. The Aadi Mahotsav has proven to be a blessing for tribal artisans by giving them direct access to sizable markets with an estimated 50,000 visitors per day.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.