The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), Ministry for Environment, Forest & Climate Change, in collaboration with the Sankala Foundation, is set to host an art exhibition titled “Silent Conversation: From Margins to the Centre” from November 3 to November 5, 2023, at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi. The inaugural ceremony, to be held on November 3, 2023, from 4:00 pm onwards, will have the honour of the presence of the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, as the chief guest. Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Arjun Munda, and Minister of State, Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Ashwini Kumar Choubey, will also be in attendance.
The NTCA, in partnership with the Sankala Foundation, is dedicating this art exhibition to celebrate the successful completion of 50 years of Project Tiger. Project Tiger, initiated in 1973, is a critical wildlife conservation endeavour in India, focusing on protecting the Bengal Tiger, India’s national animal, and restoring its habitat. Over the years, the number of Tiger Reserves in the country has increased to 54, and Project Tiger also emphasizes involving local communities in conservation efforts to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts and provide livelihood opportunities.
This unique exhibition will highlight the deep-rooted connections between tribal communities and other forest dwellers residing around India’s tiger reserves. Their profound relationship with the forest and wildlife will be conveyed through their artwork, which includes paintings reflecting the age-old traditions of various tribal communities like the Gond and Bhil, among others. The art on display will be available for purchase, with proceeds directly benefiting the artists. Tribal artists from different regions will be present throughout the exhibition, offering an opportunity for direct interaction with visitors and art enthusiasts.
Established in 2006, the NTCA plays a leading role in tiger conservation efforts in India. Its work encompasses on-the-ground protection initiatives, scientific monitoring of tigers and their habitats using advanced technology, independent assessment of tiger reserves, financial and technical support to tiger reserves, and initiatives for wildlife conservation while promoting community development and international cooperation. This exhibition, jointly organized by NTCA and the Sankala Foundation, is the first in a series of such events planned for various Indian cities and around the world.