Bengaluru, November 27, 2025: The Sukinda Ecorace Conservation Project, led by Tata Steel Foundation in partnership with the Central Silk Board and Central Tasar Research & Training Institute (CTRTI), is working to revive a native silkworm species that was on the brink of extinction. The mid-term Self-Assessment Test report conducted by Tata Steel has been reviewed by IUCN India and found to be in alignment with internationally accepted IUCN Global Standard on Nature-based Solutions (NbS). The project achieved an assessment score of 60% – well above the 25% minimum threshold – and earned an “Adequate” rating across all eight assessment criteria.

Rajiv Mangal, Vice President – Safety, Health & Sustainability, Tata Steel, said: “The mid-term assessment review by IUCN not only validates our commitment to nature-based solutions but also establishes a blueprint for how corporations can contribute meaningfully to biodiversity conservation. This work demonstrates our alignment to the Tata group’s Aalingana goals.”

D. B. Sundara Ramam, Vice President – Corporate Services, Tata Steel, said: “The Sukinda Ecorace Conservation Project showcases the convergence of ecological restoration, community empowerment, and economic viability – the true essence of sustainable development. At Tata Steel, we believe that long-term business success is intrinsically linked to environmental stewardship and community well-being.” 

For generations, the Sukinda Ecorace, a trivoltine Tasar silkworm, thrived in the mixed deciduous forests of Sukinda, Odisha. But the introduction of commercial strains and habitat loss nearly erased this native species, devastating traditional livelihoods in the process. To reverse this decline, over 26 hectares of degraded forest land were replanted with Arjun and Asan trees – the host plants, essential for Tasar silkworms. These restored forests now function as biodiversity corridors, sequestering carbon while rebuilding the ecosystem that once supported thriving silkworm populations.

The real innovation lies in the economics. Over 200 households – 50 engaged in plantation activities and 150 in sericulture – now participate in the project. The initiative directly supports India’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). It aligns with the National Biodiversity Action Plan and demonstrates how conservation and livelihood regeneration can be achieved simultaneously.

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Bengaluru, January 27, 2025:  Samvaad, one of the largest tribal conclaves in India, by Tata Steel Foundation returns to the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (KGAF) for its second year. It is set to bring a vibrant tapestry of tribal art and culture to the 25th edition of one of the most iconic arts festival of Mumbai, taking place from January 25 to February 2, 2025.

As part of the Samvaad X Kala Ghoda collaboration, four tribal artisans from Jharkhand and Odisha have created 25 artworks for a special installation. These artworks celebrate the 25-year legacy of the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival and represent five diverse tribal artforms: Sohrai, Paitkar, Saura, Juang, and Gond. The artists, Nandini Singh, Lakhimoni Sardar, Dinabandhu Soren and Dhirendra, are entrepreneurs at self-help groups based out of the two states. Their creations not only pay homage to the esteemed festival but also share the rich stories and traditions of tribal art and culture.

Sourav Roy, CEO, Tata Steel Foundation, said: “Samvaad’s collaboration with Kala Ghoda Arts Festival is a testament to our commitment to bringing the unique and diverse expressions of tribal art and culture to a wider audience. Building on the success of last year’s partnership, we are thrilled to continue this journey and introduce the captivating stories and rich traditions of tribal art to the urban landscape. We welcome you to be a part of this journey and witness the diverse tales of Samvaad.”

Tribal Artisans Showcase Their Crafts:

Throughout the nine days of the festival, Samvaad will host two stalls every three days, featuring the works of 12 artisans from various tribes and states across India. These stalls will offer a unique glimpse into their traditions and showcase their intricate handicrafts and artforms, emphasising the importance of natural elements and sustainable practices.

• Suluk Kumba (Santhal Tribe, West Bengal): This stall, meaning “beautiful family,” will showcase intricate Santhal handicrafts woven from date leaves and fibers, highlighting their traditional use of natural materials.
• Bamon Handicrafts (Jaintia Tribe, Meghalaya): Featuring a range of cane and bamboo products, this stall will offer handmade daily use items and decorative pieces like baskets, mats, runners, and wall hangings.
• Srujanika Co-operative Society (Gopalpur): This self-help group will present Saura art on bamboo silk, canvas, frames, clocks, and magnets.
• Pragati Udyog Mahila Samiti (Potka, Jharkhand): This women-led self-help group will showcase their creations, including woodwork, handmade cloth bags, magnets, Sohrai art frames, and other decorative items.
• Ontor (Santhal Tribe, Bengal): This stall will feature authentic Sohrai art, including cushion covers, candles, and wall décor.
• Bodo Weaves (Bodo Tribe, Assam): Offering a diverse range of woven fabrics, this stall will showcase shawls, sarees, mats, carpets, and other textile products.

Panel Discussion on the Future:

A key highlight of this year’s edition will be a panel discussion at David Sassoon Library on January 31, 2025, featuring individuals who deeply understand the earth and its challenges. Panelists, including Tsewang Nurboo (Boto Tribe, Ladakh), Mijing Nazary (Bodo Tribe, Assam), and Kiran Khalkho (Oraon Tribe, Jharkhand), will share their insights and perspectives, moderated by Sourav Roy, CEO of Tata Steel Foundation.

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The MoU was signed by Harminder Singh, Principal of Government ITI Samrala, Baljinder Singh, Principal of Government ITI Gill Road, and Sourav Roy, Chief Executive Officer, Tata Steel Foundation. The event was graced by the presence of Shri Tarunpreet Singh Sond, Minister of Industry and Commerce and Investment Promotion, Government of Punjab in the presence of Chanakya Chaudhary, Director, Tata Steel Foundation, Vivek Pratap Singh IAS, Principal Secretary, Department of Technical Education and Industrial Training, among others.

On the occasion, Chanakya Chaudhary said: “We are happy to deliver on our promises and partner the government of Punjab in its initiatives for the youth. This ITI further strengthens our commitment to implement need-based initiatives in this State, tailored to the multiple rounds of discussions with communities. We hope to get closer to our vision of creating a capacity of over 10,000 across all industrial training centres, model career centres and multi-skill centres located across Punjab, Jharkhand and Odisha.”

Strategic Partnership for Skill Development and Industry-Ready Workforce

This collaboration is designed to enhance the quality of technical education and equip students with industry-relevant skills to meet evolving job market demands. Under the MoU, TSF will partner with Schneider Electric to establish state-of-the-art Electrical Labs at ITI Samrala and ITI Gill Road, Ludhiana. In addition, TSF will conduct employability skill classes to ensure that students from these institutions receive best-in-class training and are prepared to excel in the competitive workforce.

Tata Steel Foundation, with its extensive experience in technical and vocational training, has been at the forefront of skill development initiatives, particularly in under-reached regions like Jharkhand and Odisha. The Foundation’s programs focus on fostering self-reliance and economic independence for young men and women, improving employability across a variety of industries.

Expanding Opportunities in Punjab

The Department of Technical Education & Industrial Training, Punjab, has long been responsible for providing vocational training to meet the industry’s growing demand for skilled workers. This partnership with TSF will further strengthen the quality of education at ITI Samrala and ITI Gill Road, ensuring students receive cutting-edge training in the Electrical trade and related disciplines.

By joining forces, TSF and DTE&IT aim to establish a long-term collaboration that will transform the technical education ecosystem in Punjab, offering students enhanced job-readiness and improved career opportunities. This MoU signifies a shared commitment to providing high-quality, industry-aligned education, ensuring that Punjab’s youth are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the future workforce.

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