On 18 January 2026, at Velani village, Sivagangai District, the Tamil Nadu Federation of Pastoral Peoples Sangams (TFPPS) organised a Patti Pongal cultural festival on forest common lands traditionally used by migrating pastoral communities. The event strongly highlighted the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists – 2026 (IYRP 2026), calling for the protection of grazing lands, common property resources, and nature-based livelihoods. As part of the celebration, special kolams and rangoli designs emphasising IYRP 2026 were drawn by community members, symbolising the deep cultural and ecological connection between pastoralists, farmers, livestock, and land. Pastoralists, palmyra climbers, and organic farmers from nearby regions participated, expressing solidarity and collective commitment. The gathering served as a pledge event, where indigenous and land-dependent communities reaffirmed their resolve to work together for the protection of rangelands, pastoral livelihoods, and cultural heritage.
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