The National Tribal Festival, Aadi Mahotsav 2025, commenced on Sunday, February 16 at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi. Organised by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED), the festival runs until 24 February, offering a vibrant showcase of India’s diverse tribal culture, crafts, cuisine, and commerce.
President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the event, emphasising its significance in promoting tribal heritage and providing a platform for tribal entrepreneurs, artisans, and artists to connect with broader markets. She highlighted that the crafts, food, attire, jewellery, medical practices, household items, and sports of tribal communities are invaluable aspects of India’s heritage, reflecting a harmonious and sustainable lifestyle.
Over the past decade, substantial efforts have been made for the holistic development of tribal societies. The Tribal Development Budget has seen a fivefold increase, reaching approximately ₹1.25 lakh crore, while the Tribal Welfare Budget Allocation has tripled to about ₹15,000 crore. These initiatives aim to ensure that the progress of tribal communities aligns with the nation’s overall development.
Economic empowerment and employment generation within tribal communities have been focal points of recent policies. Education, being pivotal for societal advancement, has been bolstered with around 1.25 lakh tribal children receiving schooling through more than 470 Eklavya Model Residential Schools nationwide. Additionally, 30 new medical colleges have been established in tribal-dominated regions over the last ten years. A national mission targeting the eradication of sickle cell anaemia by 2047 has also been launched, addressing a critical health concern prevalent among tribal populations.
The Aadi Mahotsav 2025 features participation from over 600 tribal artisans and entrepreneurs from across the country. Visitors can explore a wide array of traditional crafts, artworks, and indigenous cuisines, gaining insights into the rich cultural tapestry of India’s tribal communities. The festival not only celebrates tribal heritage but also fosters economic opportunities by connecting tribal producers directly with consumers and larger markets.
Open daily from 11 AM to 8 PM until Sunday 24 February, the festival invites everyone to experience and celebrate the unique traditions and contributions of India’s tribal communities.
