Kurukshetra June 2024

GIST OF KURUSHETRA – TRIBAL ART AND CULTURE

CHAPTER 1- INNOVATIVE SCIENCE PROJECTS TO PRESERVE TRIBAL CULTURE

Tribal communities in India possess a rich cultural heritage encompassing unique knowledge systems, traditions, and practices

• However, globalization and environmental changes threaten their cultural integrity. Science and technology can play a crucial role in preserving tribal culture while promoting sustainable development in tribal regions.
• In recent years, the Indian government has made significant strides in harnessing the power of science and technology to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the country’s tribal communities.

Department of Science and Technology (DST) Initiatives:

• The DST, through its North East Centre for Technology Application & Reach (NECTAR), has implemented several innovative projects that bridge the gap between science and tribal knowledge:
• 1. Flute Technology of Culm Cutting or Stem Setting Technique: This project aims to revive the traditional knowledge of crafting flutes with specific tonal qualities. By employing the ‘Culm Cutting’ technique, NECTAR assists tribal artisans in producing high-quality flutes, enhancing their income and preserving this cultural art form.
  2. Gasifiers and Other Bamboo Products: Recognizing the abundance of bamboo in tribal areas, NECTAR promotes the use of bamboo gasifiers. These eco-friendly devices convert bamboo into clean fuel, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional energy sources and reducing dependence on deforestation. Additionally, NECTAR supports the development and marketing of various bamboo products, creating income opportunities for tribals while promoting sustainable resource utilization.
  3. Bamboo-based Technologies with a Green Material Approach:NECTAR spearheads research and development into innovative bamboo-based technologies. This includes exploring the use of bamboo for constructing houses, furniture, and other infrastructure, promoting a greener approach to development while aligning with tribal architectural styles.
  4. This ensures access to safe drinking water for tribal communities while minimizing health risks associated with contaminated water sources.
  5. Bamboo Water Towers: NECTAR promotes the construction of bamboo water towers, offering a sustainable and costeffective solution for water storage and distribution in tribal villages.
  6. Low-Cost Water Treatment Plants: Recognizing the scarcity of clean water in many tribal areas, DST supports the development and installation of low-cost water treatment plants.
  7. Skill Development and Employment Generation:
  8. NECTAR provides training to tribal artisans in areas like bamboo processing, flute making, and water filter maintenance.
  9. This empowers tribal communities, fostering self-reliance and income generation, leading to the preservation of their cultural heritage through economically viable practices.
  10. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) Efforts:
  11. The MoEFCC complements DST’s endeavours by promoting sustainable forestry practices and empowering tribal communities to manage their natural resources. Initiatives include:
  12. Joint Forest Management (JFM) programs: JFM fosters a collaborative approach between forest departments and tribal communities, empowering tribals to participate in forest conservation and benefit from sustainable harvesting practices.
  13. Recognition of Community Forest Rights: Recognizing the traditional knowledge and rights of tribals over forests, the MoEFCC empowers them to protect and manage their resources. This fosters a sense of ownership and incentivizes sustainable practices that preserve the cultural significance of forests for tribal communities.