Tribal Research Institute, Kargil Campus, University of Ladakh organised several programs as part of the celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas-cum-Tribal Week on November 17.

Several programs such as workshop on research methodology, tribal food fest, artifact display, and cultural programme were held.

The celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas-cum-Tribal week started on November 15 and will conclude on November 19.

Dr. Jaffar Ali Khan, Department of Sociology/Tribal Research Institute, Kargil Campus, UoL underscored the policy significance of Tribal Research Institute to keep alive the cultural legacy and traditions of tribes of Ladakh. He also threw light on major challenges faced by tribal communities and their struggle to achieve milestones since independence. 

Khairun Nissa (MA-II) and Zahara Banoo (MA-I) students of the Department of Sociology spoke on the “Importance of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas” and “Munshi Abdul Sattar, a lone freedom fighter from Ladakh” respectively.

Sushil Kumar, Principal Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Kargil underlined the importance of the celebration of Janjatia Gaurav Diwas to reconnect the younger generation with their cultural roots which otherwise faded with the blows of modernity and westernization.

Aga Syed Jamal, District Social & Tribal Welfare Officer, Kargil narrated the story of the constant struggle to achieve a milestone of getting scheduled tribe status to eight major tribal groups. He also stressed covering a long way via developing entrepreneurship skills among tribal folks, and exhibitions of tribal artifacts and food.

Resource persons from the two-day workshop on “Basic Research Methodology” were also awarded certificates of presentation.

A list of artifacts including Zerboo, Bamba, Astaba, Phang, Phangkuche, Bramgmi Thakpa, rTun, sKya, Chelim Pesta, Alche, sLakpa, Huser, Smawar, Karee, Skyonchey, lDuru, Yakpa, Shok, Thawoo, Mour, Zhu, and Dha was part of the exhibition.

Tribal cuisines and cultural programme were also part of the celebration.