Pune: ‘Dhara’ Tribal Museum Opens on World Tribal Day, Celebrating Indigenous Heritage

Pune, 11th August 2024: The ‘Dhara’ Tribal Museum, established through a collaboration between TERRE Policy Centre, Global Nature Fund (Germany), and the Gram Panchayat of Kodit (Taluk-Purandar), was inaugurated on World Tribal Day. The ceremony was graced by former Pune Corporator Varsha Tapkir, Dr. Vinita Apte, founder of TERRE Policy Centre, Bhaiyyasaheb Khaire, President of Shrinath Shikshan Prasarak Mandal, Vishal Kamble, Sarpanch of Kodit village, and former Sarpanch Prasad Khaire.

The event saw the attendance of Sunil Barskar, Gramsevika Smt. Navle, villagers from Kodit and neighboring areas, along with volunteers from TERRE Policy Centre. The inauguration coincided with the celebration of World Tribal Day.

The museum showcases the tribal lifestyle, traditions, crops, flora, festivals, and ornaments from various Indian states, accompanied by photographs. A special exhibition hall, adorned with bamboo decorations, has been prepared for this purpose. The project also involved the planting of over 50,000 trees and the construction of a dam for water conservation.

Speaking at the event, Varsha Tapkir emphasized, “We realize the importance of trees when there is no oxygen. To prevent a situation where we run out of oxygen, we must continue our efforts in environmental conservation. The tree plantation by TERRE Policy Centre is significant in this regard. Collective efforts in environmental conservation will prove beneficial.”

Dr. Vinita Apte, head of TERRE Policy Centre, remarked, “This tribal museum offers a glimpse into the biodiversity of the Western Ghats, as well as tribal traditions and lifestyles. The aim is to promote conservation that benefits both nature and people. Trees have been planted and water conserved in this project. Instead of unchecked development, it is crucial to develop an eco-friendly lifestyle and sustainable development. We have also succeeded in involving the community in this project.”

Prasad Khaire stated, “The establishment of the tribal museum and the tree plantation work in Kodit village has been done with selfless intent. Seventy percent of the planted trees are fruit-bearing, which will aid both environmental protection and the economic development of local residents. So far, 50,000 trees have been planted, with a target of 100,000 trees.” Bhaiyyasaheb Khaire, President of Shrinath Shikshan Prasarak Mandal, also shared his thoughts, along with Sunil Barskar.

Dr. Vinita Apte and Varsha Tapkir were felicitated by the Kodit Gram Panchayat. The event was conducted by Manasi Ranarui.