Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada–2025 Concludes at ICAR–CIFT, Kochi with Tribute to Tribal Heroes

“Conservation of Traditional Bio-resources Must Be Rooted in the Concept of Heritage Villages”: Padma Shri Cheruvayal Raman

In a spirited tribute to the valour, vision, and extraordinary contributions of India’s tribal heroes, the Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada (1–15 November 2025) commenced across the country with great enthusiasm. Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, observed on 15 November every year, honours the legacy of tribal freedom fighters, especially Bhagwan Birsa Munda, whose 150th Birth Anniversary is being commemorated this year.

As part of the national celebrations, ICAR–Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR–CIFT), Kochi, organized a series of events under Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada.The programme honoured the indomitable spirit of Bhagwan Birsa Munda—an icon of indigenous pride, resilience, and ecological wisdom.

The Valedictory Session, held on 14 November 2025 at ICAR–CIFT, Kochi, was graced by distinguished guests Padma Shri Cheruvayal K. Raman, renowned traditional paddy conservationist, and Sri. Abhay Yadav, IFS, Assistant Deputy Conservator of Forests & Divisional Forest Officer, Malayattoor Division.

Padma Shri Cheruvayal K. Raman emphasized the need to establish a dedicated legal division for heritage conservation and proposed the formation of an advisory committee for heritage development. He further noted that the inclusion of members from tribal communities in such committees would significantly enhance their effectiveness and relevance.             And he spoke about the importance of forest conservation, the contributions of tribal communities to India’s freedom struggle, traditional food systems, and the preservation of indigenous crop seeds.

Shri Abhay Yadav, IFS, Assistant Deputy Conservator of Forests, Malayattoor region, delivered the keynote address. CIFT Director Dr. George Nainan presided over the function. Dr. V. Chandrasekhar and Dr. Prajith K. K. also spoke on the occasion.