The event commenced with a powerful Beej Padh-Yatra, symbolizing the strength of tribal women in preserving agricultural heritage. A self-help group (SHG) of women from Digri village-Torpa block joined the Beej Padh-Yatra with everyday vegetables, flowers, handmade products and fresh palash flowers both in orange and a rare yellow colour. The Seed Walk or Beej Padh-Yatra had been inaugurated by the Chief Guest – Honourable Minister of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Co-operatives – Ms. Shilpi Neha Tirkey.
The vibrant Adivasi Dance by the Self-Help Group from Belkidura village-Rania block set the stage for a day celebrating unity, resilience, and cultural expression.
The lighting of the lamp followed, marking the auspicious beginning, accompanied by a warm welcome address and a mesmerizing welcome dance that reflected the spirit of the tribal women’s collective.
Knowledge and Education: A Step Towards Transformation
An introduction to the organization and a programmatic viewpoint of Torpa Rural Development Society for Women (TRDSW) was shared with a powerful video of tribal traditions shot in the villages of Kotanger and Khatanga Churdaag of Rania block. This gave a lens into the target area in which TRDSW works and also the target group with testimonials of men and women farmers and SHG members in Mundari and Hindi languages. Focus on the skilling and knowledge aspect of the community had been highlighted among the outcomes of the livelihood program.
Education remains a pillar of transformation for tribal communities.
A panel discussion on education engaged scholars, educators, and policymakers in an insightful conversation on bridging traditional tribal knowledge with modern educational frameworks to create a holistic and inclusive learning environment.
The highlight of this session was the address by Dr. Deepak Rai, Head Scientist, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Khunti, who announced TRDSW’s collaboration with KVK, opening doors for innovative scientific techniques and agricultural development programs.
Theatrical Expression:
The Legend of Birsa Munda
A captivating theatrical performance, “The Legend of Birsa Munda”, brought the audience into the powerful narrative of one of India’s greatest tribal leaders, inspiring the participants with his legacy of resilience and empowerment.
Keynote Address by Chief Guest, Guest of Honour and Expert Panelists.
Ms. Shilpi Neha Tirkey ji – the Chief Guest inspired the audience with a motivational keynote address as she informed them about government schemes, pearl culture and the formation of an FPO.
The Guest of Honour, Shri. Sukhdeo Bhagat ji, encapsulated the strength, contributions, and future aspirations of tribal women, reinforcing the significance of such platforms in bringing meaningful change.
Cultural and Heritage Revitalization
Renowned speaker and homeopathy expert – Dr. Vasavi Kiro (Torang Trust) shared her expertise on ethno-medicine and the hidden knowledge keepers among tribal women, emphasizing the urgent need to document and preserve traditional healing practices.
The event concluded with an insightful session on tribal weaving and cultural identity, where Smt. Anuradha Kandala from Folk Weave, Koraput (Odisha) emphasized the importance of preserving traditional weaving techniques. Her session, “Revive Your Weave to Revive Your Tribal Identity,” inspired participants to embrace and promote their indigenous crafts.
Execution and Impact
The meticulous planning and seamless execution of this event ensured that it resonated deeply with participants, leaving a lasting impact.
The TRDSW Women’s Day 2025 event:
- Engaged over 2500 participants, including tribal women, male farmers, educators, activists, and policymakers.
- Facilitated key partnerships, including TRDSW’s collaboration with KVK for skill development.
- Amplified tribal voices, celebrating their rich culture, knowledge systems, and economic potential.
- platform for women entrepreneurs to bring their products from bamboo handicrafts to hand-made cloth bags, from lac bangles to foodgrains and also showcase tribal cuisine, pickles and dried plant powders.
- Adivasi knowledge of fruits, flowers, mushroom, seeds and wild edible plants were displayed for their nutritional benefits.
- There was a specially curated exhibit of traditional tribal implements from the household to agriculture, hunting and fishing tools.
- Encouraged action, with multiple stakeholders pledging support for education and livelihood initiatives.
Looking Ahead
The success of this event is only the beginning of a larger movement.
TRDSW aims to:
- Expand vocational training for tribal women in sustainable livelihoods.
- Advocate for policy-level interventions in tribal education and empowerment.
- Strengthen community-led initiatives to document and preserve tribal wisdom.
We invite everyone to join hands with TRDSW in this journey of empowerment, inclusion, and cultural resurgence. Together, we create change. Together, we transform! For A Better Today.
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