On August 9, 2024, the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples was celebrated with vibrant enthusiasm by local tribal people and the Sound of Silence project team in the four project blocks of Sandeshkhali I, Hingalganj, Kakdwip, and Kultali in the Indian Sundarbans. The event was marked by colourful performances of traditional songs and dances in various tribal languages, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous communities. Local tribal farmers proudly displayed exhibitions of indigenous seeds, plants, organic produce, food, and innovative farming techniques including integrated farming and single-stick paddy cultivation, emphasising the importance of climate-smart agriculture to secure nutrition and livelihoods. The celebrations served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and importance of preserving the unique traditions and knowledge of the indigenous people in this ecologically significant climate hotspot.

As captured in the photos and videos below, the celebration at the four blocks were marked by vibrant indigenous song-and-dance performances, creating a lively and culturally rich atmosphere. The event saw the participation of several dignitaries, including the Block Development Officers (BDOs) from Hingalganj and Patharpratima, the Additional Director of Agriculture of Sandeshkhali I, members of the respective Panchayat Samities, the Inspector of the Sundarban Development Board, and representatives from the West Bengal Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) Development and Finance Corporation. These officials pledged their support for the project’s efforts, committing to making essential resources such as crop insurance, livestock vaccination, and educational scholarships available to the indigenous communities. The celebration also included rallies organized by members of the project’s mutual cooperation and youth groups, followed by flag hoisting ceremonies at some of the blocks. A highlight of the event was the speeches delivered by local indigenous women, many of whom were speaking on stage for the first time. In their respective mother language, they articulated their aspirations and the importance of preserving their indigenous language and culture. These women pledged to halt the erosion of their cultural heritage, making their voices heard with pride and determination.