Significance of Tarao culture and tradition stressed
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 25 2025: As part of Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh, Tribal Research Institute (TRI) Manipur in collaboration with Tarao Tribe Union organised a 2-day workshop cum seminar on "Preservation and Promotion of Tarao Culture & Traditional Practices" at Leishokching village, Chandel District on January 24, 2025 .

According to a release issued by TRI, inaugural session of the workshop was graced by Sankhil Shetlengam, Member, Manipur State Commission for Scheduled Tribes; Hannah Kahmei, Director, Tribal Affairs and Hills & TRI, Manipur and Joyful, education secretary, ANSAM as presidium members.

The event began with a welcome address by M Bejuan Tarao, former president of Tarao Tribe Union.

It was followed by a keynote address by John Gaidingam D, Administrative Officer-cum-Research Officer, TRI, Manipur.

Speaking on the occasion, Hannah Kahmel said that each tribal community has unique culture, customs and heritage and that it is the uniqueness of this culture which defines the identity of a community.

She asserted that as the world is fast changing and progressing, culture and identity of people are also fast eroding and diminishing thereby posing a threat to one's identity.

Highlighting the crucial role played by TRI Manipur, she said, "TRI Manipur, despite lack of manpower and funds, strives for the welfare of the tribal communities in the State both in policy-making and implementation of Government policies & programs" .

Furthermore, Hannah appealed to all the Tribal communities in the State to cooperate with each other to preserve and promote their rich culture, customs, tradition and heritage.

About 70 people from four Tarao villages namely Tarao Laimanai, Leishokching, Khuringmul and Heikakpokpi participated in the workshop.

Notably, the workshop will culminate with a Tarao Folk Song & Cultural Dance Competition cum Exhibition of Tarao traditional costumes on January 26 at Leishokching village.

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