New Delhi: Union Minister for External Affairs, Dr. S. Jaishankar, inaugurated the second edition of the art exhibition “Silent Conversation: From Margins to the Centre” in New Delhi. The four-day exhibition, organized by the National Tiger Conservation Authority in collaboration with the Sankala Foundation, the National Human Rights Commission, and the International Big Cat Alliance, aims to highlight the intersection between environmental conservation and the empowerment of marginalized communities.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Jaishankar emphasized the deep connection between India’s development journey and its commitment to environmental preservation. He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to the welfare of Scheduled Tribes, citing initiatives like the Antyodaya scheme, which is rooted in the principle of uplifting marginalized communities to ensure no one is left behind.
The minister lauded the remarkable progress India has made in environmental conservation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, particularly the amendments made to the Wildlife Protection Act in 2022, which aim to balance development needs with ecological preservation. He attributed much of the success of the National Tiger Conservation Authority to the invaluable contributions of tribal communities and forest dwellers, whose guardianship has helped India’s forests thrive and contributed to the active combat against poaching. Dr. Jaishankar underscored the importance of Janbhagidari, or community participation, in ensuring the success of conservation policies.
In a video message, Union Minister for Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, Bhupendra Yadav, highlighted the importance of coexistence, emphasizing how communities protect and respect nature. He stressed the relevance of this harmonious relationship between people and the environment, especially as the world grapples with challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and soil desertification.
As part of the exhibition, two key publications were released— a book titled “Hidden Treasures: India’s Heritage in Tiger Reserves”, and a magazine called “Big Cats”, both focusing on India’s efforts to protect its wildlife.
The opening day concluded with a cultural program, attended by Dr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, which celebrated India’s rich heritage in wildlife conservation.
The exhibition will continue until October 21, offering a platform for the public to engage with India’s conservation efforts and its broader impact on empowering marginalized communities.