INDIGENOUS YATRA
Unlocking the power of local wisdom
Indigenous Yatra is a powerful, people-led movement to rediscover, document, and celebrate the rich traditional knowledge of India’s tribal communities. Launched on International Human Rights Day (10 December 2024), the Yatra is led by Atmashakti Trust, in collaboration with the National Consortium to Combat Malnutrition (NCCM) and over 50 grassroots organizations.
The Indigenous Yatra aims to unlock the power of local wisdom, including rich traditional agriculture, food, nutrition, health, and the social and cultural heritage and practices of the Indigenous community. Covering 14 tribal-dominated states and engaging with over 300 Indigenous communities, the Yatra aims to revive and protect traditional ways of life that are slowly disappearing, including saving native seeds, utilizing herbal medicines, growing healthy local food, and making decisions through village self-rule.
What makes this initiative unique is its strong foundation in community leadership. Tribal youth are being trained as digital storytellers, community researchers, and guardians of traditional knowledge. The Yatra also aims to build a living knowledge archive that is owned and managed by Indigenous communities. Through village visits, cultural storytelling, biodiversity mapping, and sharing knowledge with the world, the Indigenous Yatra connects local wisdom with global efforts for sustainability and justice.
This is more than a campaign. It is a people-led movement to restore identity, dignity, and a hopeful future. It marks a journey of healing and pride, where traditional knowledge supports better health, stronger communities, meaningful livelihoods, and care for the environment.
Objectives of Yatra
1. Cultural Preservation and Democratic Knowledge Repository
2. Revitalising Indigenous Practices in Agriculture, Nutrition, and Healing
3. Integrating Indigenous Knowledge for Policy and Strengthened Governance
4. Global Indigenous Knowledge-Sharing Platform
5. Enhancing Sustainability, Climate Resilience, and Indigenous Ecosystems
6. Preserving and Promoting Indigenous Wisdom