Sankranti-the Annual Biodiversity Festival
The farmer's traditional harvest festival populary called as 'Sankranti' in the south Indian state of Andhra Pradesh is celebrated annually in the month of January. And it is an occasion that Gramadeep use to promote the need for reviving the sustainable rural and environmental friendly practices of our ancestors and lifestyle. It's an occasion to highlight the importance of biodiversity protection. This initiative of Gramadeep Trust first started in 2015 and later from 2022, the AP state biodiversity board of Ministry of Environment started collaborating with us in organising it. All the concerned departments of Agriculture, Forest, Animal Husbandry, Horticulture, Fisheries, Natural Medicine, non governmental organisations etc participate to showcase their best practices.
Cultural Biodiversity and the Biodiversity Exhibition highlights the importance of environment friendly initiatives, natural farming methods, bio-alternatives. importance of indigenous animal & bird breeds, biodiversity Protection, rural artisans & sustainable living methods, traditional knowledge, rural traditions & culture. The year of 2020 biodiversity fest also witnessed the participation of 40 second generation Indian diaspora from various countries who visited as part of their "Know India" program organised by the Ministry of External Affairs, Govt of India and Ministry of Youth Affairs, Govt of AP. Visitors and guests from other parts of AP., Telangana etc also come with their friends and families to enjoy the taste of rural ambience and traditions.