MLA Hekani Jakhalu Joins Final Day of TDF Bootcamp in Kohima, TDF announces 1000 SSC Scholarships

The third and final day of the Tribal Design Forum (TDF) Kohima Bootcamp wrapped up with insightful discussions on tribal art, skills, technology, tourism, and policy design. The session commenced with a brief introduction by Anupam Purti, a TDF forum member, who outlined the event's purpose and introduced the distinguished speakers. He emphasized that TDF is the sole network of designers and creative professionals representing all tribal communities across India, organizing weekly online discussions featuring global experts whose work intersects with tribal communities. To date, the forum has hosted 172 sessions with experts from 31 countries, sharing knowledge and insights on a wide range of topics while taking members' work to the global stage.

The first session featured Hetvi Trivedi, a GI expert from the World Intellectual Property Organization in Gujarat, who shed light on the significance of intellectual property rights for tribal communities. She provided an overview of India's IP law framework and its application to protect tribal art and culture while creating economic empowerment opportunities for artisans and creators. Abhijit Sinha from Bangalore followed, presenting his "Design for Yourself" project, which promotes community-based non-formal education systems. Sinha highlighted how these systems, supported by the Meghalaya government, have led to the establishment of 22 "nooks" where young people can explore their unique abilities and find work that aligns with their skills.

The second session of the day turned the spotlight on Nagaland's rich textile traditions. Padma Shri awardee Sentila Yanger delivered a comprehensive presentation on the intricate design, weaving, and symbolism found in the traditional attire of various Naga communities. Adding to the conversation, Linoka Shiku explored the languishing crafts of Nagaland and their connection to the local ecology, emphasizing the importance of preserving these crafts.

In a significant moment, Hekani Jakhalu, the first female MLA of Nagaland and Advisor to the Nagaland government on Industry and Commerce, attended the final session. She visited  artisans of Woven Thread with Margaret Zinyu,founder of Woven Thread. She observed traditional weaving techniques and commended Zinyu's dedication to preserving this cultural heritage. Addressing the participants, Hekani lauded the TDF bootcamp for fostering dialogue and initiatives that aim to preserve and elevate tribal culture, traditions, and tourism through art, design, and technology. She assured the Tribal Design Forum of her full support in advancing these efforts.

Panel discussion during the bootcamp

The boot camp concluded with a dynamic panel discussion featuring Er H. Alongse Sangtam, Joint Director of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of Nagaland; T. Nengshi Wati, Senior Investment Officer at the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN); Margaret Zinyu, Founder of Woven Threads; and moderator Dr. Anugrah Pandi. Dr Anugrah engaged the panel members in a discussion on topics related to innovation in Nagaland's art, skills, and culture within their respective departments. Margaret also shared the challenges she faces in preserving and promoting traditional weaving with the panel. Participants in the panel discussion were given the opportunity to ask questions, allowing them to gain insights into the policies and efforts of the Nagaland government.

The panel explored how design interventions can drive sustainable tourism and the development of Nagaland's crafts. T. Nengshi Wati emphasized the challenges of balancing sustainable development with commercialization in handicrafts,He also mentioned what role can e-commerce play in this regard while Er H. Alongse Sangtam emphasized the crucial role of skills in unlocking economic opportunities within the fields of art, culture, and tourism. He also shared information about various government schemes available to support these initiatives.

TDF also announced about 1000 SSC Scholarships for SSC aspirants from Nagaland. The application will be open from 15 October.

The Kohima Bootcamp highlighted the potential of design, technology, and policy to not only preserve but also promote tribal heritage and sustainable development in Nagaland, leaving participants inspired to carry forward these discussions and innovations.