Tribal Conservation Wisdom Shines in ‘Silent Conversation: From Margins to the Centre’

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. Organized by the National Tiger Conservation Authority in collaboration with the Sankala Foundation, the National Human Rights Commission, and the International Big Cat Alliance, the four-day event showcases the vital role of tribal communities in conservation.

During his speech, Dr. Jaishankar emphasized that India’s development is closely tied to environmental conservation. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the welfare of Scheduled Tribes through programs like the Antyodaya scheme, which uplifts marginalized communities. He praised tribal communities for their role in protecting forests, preventing poaching, and supporting the success of the National Tiger Conservation Authority. Highlighting the 2022 amendments to the Wildlife Protection Act, he stressed the importance of balancing conservation efforts with development needs. Dr. Jaishankar also promoted the concept of Janbhagidari—citizen participation—as essential for policy success.

In a video message, Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav praised the spirit of coexistence between communities and nature. He emphasized the importance of this harmony in addressing global challenges like climate change and biodiversity loss. Yadav highlighted how tribal practices offer valuable lessons in environmental stewardship.

On the occasion, two publications were released: Hidden Treasures: India’s Heritage in Tiger Reserves and a magazine called Big Cats. A cultural program was held in the evening, attended by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.

The exhibition features over 200 paintings and 100 art pieces from 22 tiger reserves, showcasing tribal art forms like Gond, Warli, Pata Chitra, Bhil, and Sohrai. All artworks are sustainably crafted, and proceeds directly benefit the artisans. Of the 49 participating artists, 10 are from Madhya Pradesh, with others from states like Maharashtra, Odisha, and Mizoram.

India, home to 75% of the global tiger population, has over 3,600 tigers across 55 reserves. More than 300 million people depend on forests for their livelihoods, reinforcing the deep connection between conservation and community.