Union Minister Jual Oram inaugurates Tribes Art Fest 2026 in Delhi, showcasing over 30 tribal art forms
Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram on Monday inaugurated the 12-day Tribes Art Fest (TAF) 2026 at Travancore Palace in the national capital, reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to preserving tribal heritage while strengthening economic empowerment of tribal communities.
Organised by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the festival runs from March 2 to 13 at Travancore Palace, K.G. Marg, and features more than 75 tribal artists and over 1,000 artworks representing over 30 tribal art traditions from across the country.
Oram said the Ministry is pursuing an integrated approach that combines cultural preservation with socio-economic development. “From traditional forms to modern art, painting has evolved over centuries. The Ministry takes pride in promoting and preserving tribal art at risk of extinction while advancing tribal development,” he said.
The festival is being organised in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA). It is being described as one of the most comprehensive national showcases of India’s tribal visual culture.
The inaugural ceremony began with an invocation of Vande Mataram by the Sangeet Natak Akademi. The official TAF catalogue and launch video were also unveiled, documenting the participating artists and traditions.
A cultural performance by Khmih Creative Society from Shillong blended tribal rhythms with patriotic and contemporary expressions, drawing appreciation from attendees.
Oram highlighted key government initiatives such as PM JANMAN for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), DAJGUA for benefit saturation, expansion of Eklavya Model Residential Schools, and strengthened market access through TRIFED.
He emphasised that platforms like Tribes Art Fest go beyond symbolic celebration by creating structured market ecosystems that connect artists directly with collectors, galleries, corporates, design institutions and citizens. “This transforms cultural heritage into sustainable and aspirational livelihoods,” he said.
Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durgadas Uikey noted that such festivals enable tribal communities to present their heritage on their own terms, enhancing visibility and creating dignified livelihood opportunities rooted in community ownership.
Secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Ranjana Chopra, said the festival translates policy into practice by anchoring tribal art promotion in equity, dignity and sustainability.
The exhibition features a wide range of tribal art traditions, including Warli, Gond, Bhil, Dokra, Sohrai, Koya, Kurumba, Saura, Bodo, Oraon, Mandana, Godna and bamboo crafts from the North-East, reflecting both regional diversity and civilisational continuity.
Beyond the exhibition, TAF 2026 includes panel discussions on tribal art revival, contemporary spaces and market linkages, along with participatory workshops, illustrated talks and live demonstrations. Over 100 tribal art students from across India are being offered curated walkthroughs and mentorship sessions with senior artists.
A special highlight of the festival is Project Khum – Rooted in Creativity, conceptualised by Jai Madan in collaboration with tribal artists. Presented in the spirit of International Women’s Day, the participatory installation foregrounds women’s creativity and cultural leadership. “Khum,” meaning flower in Kokborok (Tripura), symbolises blossoming and full creative expression.
The 12-day programme will also feature daily cultural performances, inclusive workshops including sessions for persons with special needs, and a special International Women’s Day event focusing on leadership and entrepreneurship among tribal women artists.
Open to the public from March 3, Tribes Art Fest 2026 aligns with the government’s vision of inclusive growth and aims to position tribal art as a sustainable pillar of India’s creative economy, while expanding national and international recognition for tribal artists.
