New Delhi: The much-anticipated Bharat Tribes Fest 2026 concluded with a grand closing ceremony at Sunder Nursery after a successful 19-day celebration of tribal culture, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship.
Organized by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs in association with TRIFED, the festival showcased India’s rich tribal heritage while promoting sustainable livelihoods.
Record Footfall and Strong Sales Reflect Growing Demand
The festival witnessed an overwhelming response, attracting over 1.5 lakh visitors and generating multi-crore sales, indicating a rising demand for tribal products across the country.
This strong turnout highlights increasing public interest in indigenous crafts, eco-friendly products, and authentic tribal cuisines.
Read also: ITDC and Ministry of Tribal Affairs Launch Capacity Building Programme for Tribal Homestay Owners
Top Tribal Artisans and Sellers Honoured
The closing ceremony featured the felicitation of outstanding tribal artisans and sellers across ten categories, including:
- Pottery
- Cane & Bamboo
- Jewellery
- Cuisines
- Textiles
- Paintings
- Naturals
- Metal
- Gifts & Assortments
- Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs)
Awards were presented by M. Rajamurugan, Managing Director of TRIFED, and Anant Prakash Pandey.
Over 200 Stalls and 300+ Artisans Participate
The festival served as a vibrant marketplace and networking platform, featuring:
- 200+ stalls displaying tribal handicrafts, handlooms, and natural products
- Participation of 300+ tribal artisans and craftspersons
- Representation from 75+ Van Dhan Vikas Kendras
- 17 live craft demonstrations
- 30+ tribal food stalls with over 120 tribal chefs
Visitors enjoyed a diverse showcase of tribal art, jewellery, textiles, and forest-based products.
RISA Brand Launch Boosts Tribal Market Reach
A major highlight of the event was the launch of the RISA brand on March 18, 2026, aimed at positioning tribal products in contemporary and global markets.
The initiative was launched by Jual Oram and Savitri Thakur, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and improved market access for tribal entrepreneurs.
Business and CSR Conclaves Drive Dialogue
The festival also hosted several high-level discussions, including:
- Bharat Tribes Business Conclave
- CSR Conclave
- Van Dhan Conclave
These platforms brought together policymakers, corporates, and community leaders to discuss branding, innovation, and market expansion for tribal products.
A Platform for Tribal Empowerment and Inclusive Growth
Speaking at the event, Anant Prakash Pandey highlighted the festival’s role in integrating tribal products into mainstream markets while preserving cultural heritage.
M. Rajamurugan noted that the event has strengthened tribal enterprises by providing visibility, direct market access, and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Strengthening ‘Vocal for Local’ Vision
The successful conclusion of Bharat Tribes Fest 2026 reaffirms the government’s commitment to tribal empowerment, promoting the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, and ensuring inclusive economic development across India.
Read also: Badaun Set for Industrial Growth as 269-Acre Cluster Near Ganga Expressway Gets Approval
