The Minister for Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, affirmed the necessity of collective and sustained efforts towards preserving the rich tribal heritage of communities in the Pir Panjal region during a speech at the vibrant Tribal Mela held today.
The event, organized by the Tribal Affairs Department in collaboration with the District Administration at Sagra, Mendhar (Poonch), served as a platform to spotlight the importance of cultural identity amidst rapid development. Rana emphasized that development must not come at the cost of cultural erosion.
He advocated for an integrative approach that harmonizes progress with tradition. Rana raised concerns about unchecked modern influences that could diminish tribal customs and moral frameworks, urging for awareness and action to safeguard these values.
Underlining the Omar Abdullah Government’s commitment to inclusive development, Rana noted their aim to cultivate a resilient, self-reliant tribal society. He recognized the efforts of the Tribal Affairs Department and local administration in organizing the event, dubbing it a ‘meaningful step towards development with dignity‘.
The Tribal Mela attracted significant local participation and prominently featured tribal heritage, food, and traditional wisdom. Attendees explored stalls that displayed indigenous cuisines, medicinal plants, and healthcare knowledge systems, celebrating the community’s rich cultural tapestry.
A highlight of the event was the free medical camp, which offered consultations and health services to attendees, further reflecting the community-oriented focus of the mela.
This multi-faceted event embodied the government’s determination to ensure that development policies remain rooted in lived tribal realities, while joyfully celebrating the vibrant culture and heritage that defines the Pir Panjal region.
Notable attendees included Chairperson DDC Poonch Tazeem Akhtar, Deputy Commissioner Poonch Ashok Kumar Sharma, and various senior officials, which underscored the importance of the occasion.
