Kalinganagar (Odisha): Tata Steel Foundation (TSF) launched the 10th edition of ‘Samvaad Fellowship’ at Adivasi Youth Club, Gobarghati Phase 2, in Odisha’s Jajpur district.
The Samvaad Fellowship, launched in 2017, supports tribal youth in documenting and safeguarding tribal languages, oral traditions and cultural practices that are at risk of being lost. The fellowship provides financial support, mentorship and opportunities for community-based research and documentation.
Tribal youths — between 18 and 35 years of age — from 24 panchayats across Danagadi, Bamnipal, and Sukinda regions will convene to exchange ideas and co-create strategies to ensure their vibrant heritage remains a thriving legacy for future generations.
Rajendra Kalundia, Chairman, Special Development Council of Jajpur, who graced the event as chief guest, stressed on the importance of protecting local traditions.
Among others present on the occasion were Rasmiranjan Nayak, Head, Rehabilitation and Resettlement, Tata Steel Kalinganagar, and Debanjan Mukherjee, Head, Kalinganagar Impact Cluster, TSF.
Around 120 community members attended the launch event, including tribal language teachers, Samvaad Fellows and alumni, representatives from NINL, and members of the Kalinganagar Working Committee.
Over last 10 years, the fellowship has supported 64 people and facilitated the creation of 34 literary works, 32 songs, 11 documentaries, and two community heritage institutions, contributing significantly to the preservation of India’s diverse tribal heritage.
