GI Tagged Tribal Art Workshop and Exhibition Begins in New Delhi
The National Education Society for Tribal Students under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs inaugurated a three-day GI Tagged Tribal Art Workshop and Exhibition in New Delhi. The event, scheduled from 24 to 26 November 2025, features 139 students from Eklavya Model Residential Schools along with 34 art and music teachers and 10 master artisans. The workshop highlights India’s Geographical Indication tagged tribal art traditions.
Inaugural Session and Addresses
The ceremony opened with a lamp-lighting ritual, followed by a welcome address from Shri Vipin Kumar, Joint Commissioner (Admin), NESTS. Prof. Anil Kumar, HoD, Janapada Sampada, IGNCA, presented a special address focusing on the civilizational links of tribal art forms. Subsequent remarks were delivered by Shri Bipin Raturi, Joint Commissioner (Civil), NESTS, and Shri Prashant Meena, Additional Commissioner, NESTS. Shri Ajeet Kumar Srivastava, Commissioner, NESTS, formally inaugurated the workshop. The session concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Dr. Rashmi Chaudhary, Assistant Commissioner (Academic), NESTS.
Cultural Performances by Students
The inaugural programme included cultural presentations by students from EMRS institutions. Performances featured the Dhemsa Dance of Odisha, Jaunsari Dance of Uttarakhand, Mizo Folk Dance of Mizoram, a folk vocal solo from Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and a patriotic song from Madhya Pradesh, showcasing diverse artistic expressions and the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.
Training in GI Tagged Art Traditions
GI expert Ms. Shweta Menon conducted a session on the relevance of GI-tagged art forms and is leading the workshop’s training activities. Students are participating in hands-on sessions across various traditional arts including Gond, Warli, Madhubani, Pithora, Cheriyal, Rogan, Kalamkari, Pichwai, Aipan, Rangwali Pichora, Kangra, Basholi, Mysore paintings, Bastar Dhokra, and Kachchhi embroidery under the guidance of master artisans.
Integration of Cultural Heritage and Education
The programme aligns with the emphasis of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on integrating skill development, vocational education, and cultural heritage into mainstream learning. Through learning GI-recognised art traditions, students gain opportunities for artistic growth and livelihood development.
Strengthening Identity Through Education
EMRS institutions play a role in providing culturally rooted education that fosters confidence, aspiration, and national integration among tribal students. Exposure to academic learning alongside traditional arts supports students in developing a strong cultural identity while accessing avenues for empowerment and progress.