Himachal’s First Eco-Friendly, Zero-Waste Tribal Festival Marks Historic Success in Keylong

Lahaul & Spiti witnessed a historic moment as the State-Level Tribal Festival 2025 drew to a close at the Police Ground, Keylong. Organised by the District Administration of Lahaul & Spiti, the three-day event marked Himachal Pradesh’s first-ever eco-friendly and zero-waste festival, setting a new benchmark for cultural, environmental, and community-led celebrations in the state.

The festival’s opening was addressed by the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh,  Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who virtually unveiled and laid the foundation stones for development projects worth Rs 36 crore for the Lahaul region. The event attracted large crowds from across the valley, including residents from remote villages, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts. It promoted tribal tourism, fostered community integration, and created livelihood opportunities through local product sales and homestay participation. Over 790 homestays and 70 hotels in the region supported the influx of attendees.

Speaking to the gathering via a digital platform, the Chief Minister stated, "Lahaul is not only a land of unmatched beauty and cultural depth, but also a symbol of how sustainable development and heritage preservation can go hand-in-hand. The eco-friendly Tribal Festival 2025 is a shining example of a forward-looking, environmentally conscious Himachal Pradesh."

The festival was attended by several eminent dignitaries, including Shri Rajesh Dharmani, Minister for Urban Development, Housing & Technical Education, who joined as Chief Guest, and Anuradha Rana, MLA from Lahaul-Spiti.

The event was led by Kiran Bhadana (IAS), Deputy Commissioner, Lahaul & Spiti and Chairperson of the Tribal Festival Committee, whose vision transformed the occasion into a platform for cultural pride and environmental responsibility.“This festival reflects the soul of Lahaul - its tribal roots, its vibrant culture, and its progressive spirit. Our aim was not just to celebrate, but to do so with mindfulness and inclusivity, ensuring every local, visitor, and stakeholder felt a part of this journey,” said Bhadana.

The festival also benefited from planning support and participation by Veena Devi, Zila Parishad Chairperson; Ms Akanksha Sharma, SDM Keylong; Kalyani Tiwana, Assistant Commissioner; Rashmi Sharma, DSP Keylong; alongside Panchayati Raj representatives, state leaders, and other local dignitaries.

What set this festival apart was its eco-conscious execution. With a complete ban on single-use plastic, the use of biodegradable utensils, refillable water stations, and waste segregation by Swachhata volunteers, the festival became a model of zero-waste celebrations in the state. The initiative received praise from leaders and participants alike, setting the stage for future green festivals across Himachal.

The celebrations began with a colourful Shobha Yatra, showcasing tribal unity and devotion in Lahaul & Spiti. The 79^th District-Level Independence Day was observed during the festival, featuring patriotic parades by Himachal Police, Home Guards, BRO, and students, alongside heartfelt cultural performances. Evenings provided vibrant cultural showcases with performances by Da Shugs Band from Ladakh, folk singer Faisal Ashoor, Rosy Sharma, and Firdaus Band. Traditional dances such as Jabro and Chabskyan captivated audiences, while pageants including Mr & Ms Lahaul-Spiti, Tribal Queen, Tribal King, and Grihalakshmi celebrated beauty, tradition, and empowerment. Sports ranged from cricket, badminton, and volleyball to traditional contests like matka fod and tug of war, with Deputy Commissioner Ms Kiran Bhadana joining participants to emphasise grassroots leadership.

Ahead of the main event, from August 2 to 13, the District Administration organised a series of community-centric activities. Yoga sessions, tree-planting drives, cleanliness campaigns, poetry and painting competitions, and traditional sports and knitting contests fostered inclusive participation and anticipation throughout the valley.

Exhibitions featured services and schemes from over a dozen departments and organisations. The Health Department offered free health check-ups for nearly 200 visitors, while departments such as AYUSH highlighted key government schemes and community initiatives. SHGs and Tribes India promoted handicrafts, local produce, and traditional cuisines, boosting rural entrepreneurship and livelihoods.

The Tribal Festival 2025 will be remembered as a landmark event celebrating the heritage, unity, and ecological consciousness of Himachal’s tribal communities. With strong leadership, inclusive participation, and a vision rooted in tradition and sustainability, the festival has reinforced Lahaul & Spiti’s status as a cultural and ecological beacon of Himachal Pradesh.