Maharashtra takes cue from Kenya to make tribal communities self-sufficient: Minister Narhari Zirwal

Mumbai: The Maharashtra government is taking cue from Kenya and working towards making our tribal communities self-sufficient.

“A tribal-dominated country like Kenya has preserved its tribal culture while making its tribal communities self-reliant. As a result, they do not have to depend on others as their needs are met right where they live, while still upholding their traditions,” said veteran tribal leader Narhari Zirwal, who is a minister in the Devendra Fadnavis-led Maha Yuti government.

"I will pursue this matter with the Maharashtra government and work towards making our tribal communities self-sufficient. I had been to Kenya on a study tour, during which I got to study the schemes implemented there. I am determined to launch similar initiatives here to make our tribal brothers and sisters self-reliant,” said Zirwal, who is the Minister of Food & Drug Administration and Special Assistance.

Zirwal, a former Deputy Speaker of Legislative Assembly, also remarked that tribals are self-illuminating, like fireflies. He further stated that he would strive to take the culture and traditions of Maharashtra’s tribal communities to the global stage.

Zirwal comments came at the World Tribal Day celebrations in Mumbai which was also graced by Legislative Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar and Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection Minister Chhagan Bhujbal, a veteran OBC leader, Shiv Sena MLC Sachin Ahir and actor Bhau Kadam.

The tribal population in India accounts for 8.7 per cent of the total, while in Maharashtra it is at 9.4 per cent.

A notable moment was the release of the book “Kajvyache Jagne” (The Awakening of the Fireflies), which depicts various aspects of tribal life, stories of struggle, and their rich traditions. The book’s concept and inspiration came from Zirwal.

During the function, the Adivasi Jivan Gaurav was presented to Padma Shri recipient Rahibai Popere for her contribution towards conservation of indigenous seeds.

The Adivasi Bhushan awards were conferred to Rajendra Vasave for employment generation for tribals from mushroom cultivation, Devji Tofa for notable work under the Forest Rights Act, 2006, Miklya Dhinda for preservation of tribal culture through Tarpa music, Keshav Gavit for contribution to rural education involving Zilla Parishad School Hiwali, Trimbakeshwar, Nashik and Vaharu Sonawane for literary and poetic contribution.

The cultural highlight of the day was the Vanarang Tribal Festival, showcasing the art and performances of tribal artists from Nashik, Palghar, and Gadchiroli districts.