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In order to have a better understanding of the life situation of the Tribal and Adivasi communities in India and to have a common form of worship for this special Sunday, NCCI  brings out this Liturgy. 

Since 2011, Tribal and Adivasi Sunday have been celebrated in many parts of our country in sensitizing the local congregation on Tribal and Adivasi Concerns. We would like to thank for the enormous support we have received from the churches, dioceses, parishes and institutions in celebrating this special Sunday.

The theme for this year’s Tribal and Adivasi Sunday is “Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact”. We take this opportunity to invite you to celebrate Tribal and Adivasi Sunday on 4th August 2024 in your church/local parish/institution in a creative way. Herewith we are sending you a special order of worship for the day. You may take the freedom to use the entire worship order and translate it in your vernacular language or adapt parts of it.

Download the liturgy 

Reflection

In Christ,

Mr. Pradip Bansrior
Executive Secretary
Commission on Tribal/ Adivasi Concerns
National Council of Churches in India

Indigenous peoples in voluntary isolation and initial contact are a stark reminder of the paradises amidst us all over the world. It is a reminder that life is possible without the influences of the “fruits of development’. Furthermore, it is a reminder that it is not only possible, but is the key to live and sustain.

 This year, at the time of the observance of the World Day of Indigenous peoples we are called to remember this gospel and see how the existing and remaining ‘protected’ spaces can be preserved by respecting the rights of peoples who choose voluntary isolation.

 It is estimated that there are 200 groups of peoples who belong to this category of peoples around the world. They are present in almost all the continents of the world. Their rights are enshrined, with a view to be protected, in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

 There are many challenges that they face due to shrinking spaces of their habitats. Rapid developments for agriculture, mining and tourism on the one hand, and the presence of natural resources on the other, pave way for deforestation even in their protected spaces. Vulnerabilities to diseases due to immunological challenges are also their bane when there is forced contact with the surrounding world.

 As we pray together on the same theme of the ‘UN International Day of the Indigenous Peoples’, during the Tribal/ Adivasi Advocacy Sunday, let us educate ourselves about these communities,

 repent for the occupation of the lands of indigenous communities over many decades and centuries in the name of ‘development’, recognise the difficulties and challenges of those who choose to be in voluntary isolation, and affirm to protect their rights.

 May this year’s observance of the Tribal and Adivasi Advocacy Sunday be a blessing to the communities that we lift up – people who have chosen voluntary isolation. May the observance of this Sunday also serve as a warning to our exploitative mindset and lifestyle, and call us, challenge us, and force us to a commitment to change.

 Download the liturgy

Rev. Asir Ebenezer

General Secretary

National Council of Churches in India

Nagpur, Maharashtra – A historic 3-day National Consultation on Adoption of Laws applicable to 5th and 6th Schedule Areas was held by the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) Commission on Tribal/Adivasi Concerns from July 2nd to 4th, 2024. Over 50 delegates representing various denominations and NCCI secretariats participated in the event.

The consultation focused on building awareness on the legal frameworks governing Tribal and Adivasi communities in India. Discussions included the impact of different on these communities.

The consultation was inaugurated by Rt. Rev. Sameer Isaac Khimla, Chairperson of the NCCI Commission on Tribal/Adivasi Concerns. He addressed the ongoing challenges faced by Tribal and Adivasi communities in protecting their identity.

Presentations by Dr. Bendangjungshi, Mr. Bineet Mundu, and Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi delved deeper into specific issues concerning Tribal and Adivasi rights, including the Rights and Role of Indigenous Women in customary law.

The consultation concluded with a call for church involvement in safeguarding Tribal and Adivasi rights and advocating for a just and equitable society. Participants emphasized the importance of united and continued advocacy efforts with and on behalf of indigenous people.  The program was facilitated by Mr. Pradip Bansrior, Executive Secretary, Commission on Tribal and Adivasi Concerns of NCCI.

 

Click here for more photos

 

National Council of Churches in India
Commission on Tribal/ Adivasi Concerns

National Consultation on Adoption of Laws applicable to 5th and 6th Schedule Areas

Date: 2-4 July 2024

Venue: NCCI, Christian Council Campus, Civil Lines, Nagpur (Maharashtra)

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