The Tribal Research Centre (TRC), Nagaland University, with the collaboration of the Department of Sociology, Nagaland University, Lumami, observed the ‘International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples’ under the theme, “Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in voluntary isolation and initial contact” on Friday, at the Conference Hall, Department of Sociology

The PRO, Nagaland University informed that the program was chaired by Dr. Srikanth Yamsani, Asst. Prof., TRC while Prof. Athungo Ovung, Director of TRC and HoD, Sociology, gave the welcome address. This was followed by a Naga Folk Song by research scholars from the department and a special talk by Prof. Lanusashi Longkumar, Department of Geography, Nagaland University.

Prof. Lanusashi, in his talk, urged the recognition of the rich cultural heritage, profound wisdom, and enduring resilience of Indigenous people around the globe. He said that indigenous communities have been the stewards of our planet’s natural resources for millennia, holding a profound understanding of the environment and sustainable living. Yet, despite their invaluable contribution, indigenous people have faced and continue to face significant challenges, he added, stressing that it is our collective responsibility to support their rights, advocate for justice and ensure that their voices are heard and respected.

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The lecture was followed by a folk song by MA Sociology students and then by a screening of a short documentary titled ‘A Future for Taiwan’s Indigenous People,’ a DW Documentary. The ‘International Day of the World’s Indigenous People’ program ended with a vote of thanks from Dr. Sandeep Gupta, Assoc. Prof, Dept of Sociology.