New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Thursday inaugurate the mega National Tribal Festival "Aadi Mahotsav" at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in Delhi, an official release from PMO said. 


According to the press release, "Prime Minister has been at the forefront of taking steps for the welfare of the tribal population of the country while also according due respect to their contribution in the growth and development of the country." 


"In an effort to showcase the tribal culture on the national stage, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will inaugurate "Aadi Mahotsav", the mega National Tribal Festival, on 16th February at 10:30 AM at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in Delhi," the release further read. 


The release added that the Aadi Mahotsav, which celebrates the spirit of tribal culture, crafts, cuisine, commerce and traditional art, is an annual initiative of the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation Limited (TRIFED) under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.  


Notably, this year, it is being organised from 16 to 27 February at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in Delhi. 


"The programme will showcase the rich and diverse heritage of tribes from across the country in over 200 stalls at the venue. Around 1000 tribal artisans will participate in the Mahotsav," PMO said. 


Along with usual attractions like handicrafts, handloom, pottery, jewellery etc., the PMO release said, a special focus in the Mahotsav will be on showcasing Shree Anna grown by tribals since 2023 is being celebrated as the International Year of Millets.


Earlier on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 14th edition of India's biennial aerospace exhibition 'Aero India' which will showcase the country as an emerging hub for manufacturing military aircraft, helicopters, equipment and new-age avionics. He emphasised that Aero India 2023 is not only a show but a "reflection of India's self-confidence."


At the inaugural event held at Air Force Station, Yelahanka in Bengaluru, PM Modi released commemorative stamps and said: "Bengaluru sky is bearing testimony to the capabilities of New India. This new height is the reality of New India. India is touching new heights and transcending them too"


"Aero India 2023 is a shining example of India’s growing capabilities and the presence of more than 100 nations here shows the trust that the entire world shows in India. More than 700 exhibitors from India and the world are participating. It has broken all past records," he added.