Himachal Pradesh is all set to host its first-ever Zero Waste Tribal Festival in Keylong, Lahaul-Spiti, from 14th to 16th August 2025. Aimed at celebrating the rich tribal culture of the region while promoting environmental sustainability, this unique festival marks a pioneering step in combining heritage with ecological responsibility.
Deputy Commissioner of Lahaul-Spiti, Kiran Bhadana, stated that the festival’s zero-waste goal will be realized through a range of initiatives. These include a complete ban on plastic bottles and disposable cutlery, installation of drinking water stations with regular quality checks, and the use of traditional pattal (leaf plates) and biodegradable utensils. To further reduce waste, all promotional materials such as banners will be made from sustainable materials like cloth. Multiple waste segregation bins will be set up to ensure proper disposal and recycling.
To support this eco-conscious initiative, the district administration has partnered with Healing Himalayas Foundation and Saahas NGO, both of which will assist in waste management, sustainability awareness, and hands-on education on green practices during the event.
One of the major highlights of the festival will be the ‘Heritage Echoes Pavilion’, which will serve as a platform for tribal artisans to showcase their traditional crafts, handlooms, and cuisines. This initiative is being carried out in collaboration with the Tribal Co-operative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED), and aims to promote both cultural preservation and sustainable livelihoods.
The festival’s cultural performances are being coordinated with support from the North Zone Cultural Centre. Audiences will enjoy vibrant displays of tribal art and music from Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, and Uttarakhand, along with performances from local areas such as Lahaul, Spiti, and Pangi, offering a rich blend of regional and national tribal traditions.
In addition, the Food Fiesta at the festival will offer a fusion of authentic tribal delicacies and global flavors, providing visitors with a unique and diverse culinary experience.
Deputy Commissioner Bhadana emphasized that the Tribal Festival–2025 goes beyond cultural celebration. “It’s a declaration of our commitment to sustainability and the preservation of heritage,” she said. As Himachal’s first Zero Waste Tribal Fair, the event is expected to serve as a model for responsible celebration and inspire similar efforts across the state.
