Port Blair, February 18: The Minister of State for Education, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, inaugurated the first tribal crafts shop “The Island Heritage Crafts” at RGT Road, Sri Vijayapuram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, marking a historic step towards empowering the tribal artisans of Andaman & Nicobar. The event was attended by tribal leaders, artisans, women entrepreneurs, and key stakeholders dedicated to preserving and promoting Nicobari heritage.
The inauguration began with a traditional tribal welcome for the Chief Guest, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the official opening of the shop. A lamp-lighting ritual was conducted, symbolizing prosperity and the beginning of a new journey for the tribal community.
Dr. Majumdar then visited the GI-tagged products section, where he was presented with Nicobar Virgin Coconut Oil, a product recognized and featured in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mann Ki Baat of the brand “Tribe Nicobar”. He engaged with tribal artisans, women entrepreneurs, and members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), acknowledging their efforts in preserving traditional crafts.
As part of the event, the Minister toured the showroom of Reem Indane, the first tribal woman LPG distributor in the capital, and the first registered tribal film production company, both milestones achieved under the Modi government’s vision for tribal empowerment.
The event also honoured key contributors and tribal leaders who played a pivotal role in making this initiative a reality. In his speech, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar praised the efforts of the tribal community, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting tribal entrepreneurship and preserving indigenous culture.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks from a representative of the Tribal Society, expressing gratitude for the government’s unwavering support and reaffirming the commitment to uplifting the tribal community through economic and cultural initiatives.
The inauguration of Island Heritage Craft Shop marks a significant step in promoting tribal heritage, self-sufficiency, and economic empowerment in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The initiative aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, ensuring that the rich culture and craftsmanship of the Nicobarese people reach national and international platforms.
Later, the Minister of State for Education Shri. Sukanta Majumdar extended his heartfelt appreciation to the tribal leaders Prince Rashid, State President, Akhil Bharatiya Aadivasi Vikash Parishad/All India Tribal Development Council, A & N Islands , Mr. Rayhaan Pasha, President, Nicobar Youth Association and their entire team for their exceptional contributions to this initiative.
Their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in securing the first GI tags of A & N Islands and promoting the cultural heritage of their tribal region. Their dedication aligns with the vision of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, who has emphasized the importance of preserving the cultural heritage and empowering the tribal communities of our country.
Further, The Minister of State for Education Dr. Sukanta Majumdar Congratulated to everyone involved in this remarkable journey. Together, we are making a significant impact and ensuring a brighter future for our tribal artisans and farmers.
