Discussion on World Tribal Day Focuses on Tribal Rights, Culture and Unity

Udaipur. On the occasion of World Tribal Day 2026, the Department of Political Science at Manikya Lal Verma Shramjeevi College organized an extended lecture and discussion programme focusing on tribal culture, traditions, constitutional rights and contemporary issues concerning tribal communities.

The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Ekta Hussain, Head of the Department of Political Science. The keynote speaker, Professor G. S. Kumpawat, highlighted the history and significance of World Tribal Day. He informed the gathering that the United Nations first observed the day in 1994.

Professor Kumpawat said that tribal communities live in different regions and countries across the world and have their own distinct traditions, lifestyles and cultural identities. He noted that many tribal communities have historically remained outside the mainstream social structure. Governments have therefore introduced various schemes from time to time for their social and economic development.

He discussed initiatives such as the Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP), TADA and MADA, which have benefited tribal communities. He also elaborated on the constitutional rights available to tribal communities under various Articles of the Constitution and the Fifth Schedule.

Learn the Spirit of Unity from Tribal Communities

Professor Malay Paneri, Dean, spoke about the unique features of tribal culture and community life. He said that tribal communities do not think only about the welfare of their families but also work for the interests and well-being of the entire community. Society, he said, can learn from tribal communities the values of unity, cooperation and collective responsibility.

Prof. Dr. Pankaj Rawat of the Department of Geography shared his views on the definition and social structure of tribal communities from a historical perspective. Students also actively participated in the programme and shared their views.

Dr. C. L. Bhagora of the Department of Political Science spoke about contemporary and pressing issues facing tribal society. He also expressed gratitude to the guests, faculty members and participants.

The programme was conducted by Himani Kharol.

Among those present were Dr. Rajesh Sharma, Dr. Mamta Paneri, Dr. Kusum, Dr. Rani Prabha, Dr. Mamta Purbia, Dr. Shaili Mehta, Dr. Shahid Hussain, Dr. Aarti, Preeti Yadav, Dr. Bindiya, research scholar Jyoti Damor, along with a large number of students.