International Day of the world's indigenous people

Colourful processions, cultural programmes and discussions were held on August 9 at Nalua Tea Garden of Chunarughat Upazila of Habiganj on the occasion of International Day of the world's indigenous people.

Khofil Urang, president of Tribal Welfare Association, Chunarughat Upazila unit, inaugurated and presided over the programme.

A cultural function with the participation of indigenous communities was held at temple field under Nalua Tea Garden area in the afternoon, as part of a daylong programme organised by Sokkhomata project of Caritas Sylhet Region and funded by Caritas Espanola.

Clad in traditional attire and holding musical instruments, indigenous people belonging to Munda, Santal, Urang, Kharia and Urisha joined the programme in hundreds.

Chief guest Chayon Chakrabarty, junior programme officer of Sokkhomata project, Caritas Sylhet Region and special guest Anil Layek, field officer of Sokkhomata project, Sopon Sawtal, president of Adibashi Somaj Unnoyon Songstha addressed the discussion.

The speakers said according to the ILO Convention, indigenous cultural heritage should be preserved to ensure the cultural diversity of the country. The government should take initiatives towards this end, they added. They also urged indigenous people, especially the younger generation, to preserve their unique culture and traditions.