Bhubaneswar: The much-anticipated annual Adivasi Mela was inaugurated by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at the Exhibition Grounds in Bhubaneswar on Sunday. Running from January 5 to January 15, this year’s fair coincides with the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas conference, offering a platform to showcase Odisha’s tribal heritage to a global audience.
Speaking at the inauguration, Chief Minister Majhi described the Adivasi Mela as an integral part of Odisha’s cultural fabric, attracting locals and visitors alike. He expressed confidence that this year’s edition would enhance global recognition of the state’s tribal culture as overseas Indians and dignitaries attend the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrations.
During the event, the Chief Minister launched the Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme, aimed at reducing dropout rates among tribal students. Under the scheme, students passing Class 8 and enrolling in Class 9, 10, or 11 will receive a one-time incentive of ₹5,000 annually. On the inaugural day, 1.6 lakh students were disbursed this amount, with over two lakh tribal students set to benefit from the initiative.
Reflecting on Odisha’s tribal legacy, Majhi paid tribute to freedom fighters Bhagwan Birsa Munda and Shaheed Madho Singh. He narrated Madho Singh’s valiant struggle against British colonial forces, including his role in leading a rebellion in 1857. Despite his eventual capture and execution, the Chief Minister noted that Madho Singh’s four sons carried forward the fight for independence, cementing their place in Odisha’s history.
The Chief Minister highlighted the challenges faced by tribal communities, who make up nearly a quarter of Odisha’s population. He stressed the need for targeted development in education, health, and livelihoods to address long-standing disparities and ensure inclusive growth.
This year’s Adivasi Mela features 147 stalls, showcasing tribal art, handicrafts, and local cuisine, along with 15 live demonstrations and a dedicated pavilion honoring Bhagwan Birsa Munda. Visitors can explore the rich cultural tapestry of Odisha’s tribal communities while enjoying traditional food and entertainment.
Nityanand Gand, Minister for Scheduled Tribes and Caste Development, described the fair as a transformative platform for tribal communities. He emphasized the opportunities it provides for artisans and farmers to market their products and gain international exposure.
As part of the celebrations, the Chief Minister honored nine tribal achievers and ten tribal farmers for their contributions to preserving Odisha’s heritage. He also released the journal ‘Banja-2025,’ published by the Tribal Language and Culture Academy, to further promote tribal literature and culture.
