Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 18 February 2025
In a landmark initiative to empower tribal artisans, the Hon’ble Minister of State for Education, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, inaugurated the first tribal crafts shop, The Island Heritage Crafts Center, at RGT Road, Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The event witnessed the participation of tribal leaders, artisans, women entrepreneurs, and key stakeholders committed to preserving and promoting the Nicobari heritage.
The ceremony commenced with a traditional tribal welcome for Dr. Majumdar, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a lamp-lighting ritual, symbolizing prosperity and a new beginning for the tribal community.
During his visit, the Minister explored the GI-tagged products section, where he was presented with Nicobar Virgin Coconut Oil, a distinguished product featured in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mann Ki Baat under the brand Tribe Nicobar. Engaging with tribal artisans, women entrepreneurs, and Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Dr. Majumdar commended their dedication to preserving and promoting traditional crafts.
As part of the event, the Minister also toured Reem Indane, the first tribal woman-led LPG distribution enterprise in the capital, and the first registered tribal film production company—both significant milestones under the Modi government’s vision for tribal empowerment.
Recognizing the efforts of key contributors, Dr. Majumdar honored tribal leaders who played a crucial role in making the initiative a reality. In his address, he reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting tribal entrepreneurship and safeguarding indigenous culture.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from a representative of the Tribal Society, expressing gratitude for the government’s continuous support in uplifting the tribal community through economic and cultural initiatives.
The inauguration of The Island Heritage Crafts Center marks a crucial step in promoting tribal heritage, self-sufficiency, and economic empowerment in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. This initiative aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, ensuring that the rich cultural legacy and craftsmanship of the Nicobarese people gain national and international recognition.
Dr. Sukanta Majumdar extended heartfelt appreciation to tribal leaders Prince Rashid, State President of Akhil Bharatiya Aadivasi Vikas Parishad/All India Tribal Development Council (A & N Islands), and Mr. Rayhaan Pasha, President of the Nicobar Youth Association, along with their entire team. He lauded their exceptional contributions in securing the first GI tags for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and their relentless efforts in promoting tribal cultural heritage.
The Minister congratulated all individuals involved in this remarkable journey, emphasizing that their collective efforts are driving significant change. He reaffirmed the government’s vision of ensuring a prosperous future for tribal artisans and farmers, in alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to preserving India’s indigenous cultural wealth. (Story Based on a PR)