Jual Oram inaugurates Tribes Art Fest 2026

Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram on Monday inaugurated a 12-day Tribes Art Fest 2026 in New Delhi. In his address, Oram said, that tribal art reflects centuries-old civilisational wisdom and must be preserved, promoted and mainstreamed as part of the vision of Viksit Bharat. Oram said that the Ministry is pursuing an integrated approach to tribal empowerment that combines cultural preservation with socio-economic development. He highlighted major initiatives including PM JANMAN for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), DAJGUA for benefit saturation, expansion of Eklavya Model Residential Schools for quality education, and strengthened market linkages through TRIFED.
He emphasised that platforms such as Tribes Art Fest move beyond symbolic celebration by creating structured market ecosystems, connecting artists with collectors, galleries, corporates, design institutions and citizens, thereby transforming cultural heritage into sustainable and aspirational livelihoods.Oram said the exhibition provides a meaningful national platform for tribal painters, sculptors and performers from across the country. He noted that traditions such as Sohrai painting are deeply connected to festivals, agriculture and spirituality, reflecting the close relationship between tribal life and nature. 
Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durgadas Uikey said the festival is not merely a cultural event but a celebration of India’s spiritual and civilisational ethos. He said the initiative aims to strengthen the identity, dignity and livelihoods of tribal communities and urged citizens to visit the festival and support tribal artisans. Organised in collaboration with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), the festival brings together more than 75 tribal artists and over 1,000 artworks representing more than 30 tribal art traditions, said an official statement.