Theme: “Leaving no one behind- Indigenous people and the call for a new social contract”
9th August, globally observed as the World’s Indigenous Peoples Day, was celebrated by Gonpada Navjeevan Welfare Trust on 9th August at Dibyo Bani Nikatan, Gonpada from 10 am to 4 pm in the presence of the 90 participants including villagers and special guests from Tata Metaliks CSR Department, Nekurseni Vivekananda Vidhyabhavan and Panchayat Samiti Sabhapati. This event was an initiative to spread the message of unity, leadership and rights among the indigenous population. GNWT upheld the theme and message of promotion and protection of the rights of the indigenous population through a cultural programme and an afternoon seminar. The programme was conducted in Santhali and Kora language. The message by the Chief Guest- Ms. Dilith Castleton (Head of Tata Metaliks CSR Department) and the Guest of Honour – Mr. Ananta Mandi (Panchayat Samiti Sabhapati) was inspiring as it acknowledged the close bond between Indigenous population and nature as well as their knowledge of it. The cultural event was followed by as seminar that acknowledged the contribution of Indigenous people, the everyday challenges of indigenous people, measures/ means for a better quality of life, rights of Adivasi People, ways to promote and protect the rights of Adivasi people and working unitedly for a better tomorrow (role of leaders and group solidarity).