Bhubaneswar: Model ethnic settlements of various tribal communities of the state have been one of the major attractions at the Adivasi Mela over the years.

Chief minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the fair, which shifted to Exhibition Ground from Adivasi Ground from this year, on January 26.

Members of about 62 tribal communities are representing their lifestyles at the fair. From colourful mud houses with thatched roofs to bamboo adornments, they have put in their best efforts to impart an original look to these model settlements. Their cooking methods, agricultural processes, methods of interior décor and ways of invoking the Lord have been portrayed in the huts.

"This is an opportunity to interact with urban people and showcase our skills and lifestyles," said Shanta Murmu, a tribal woman from Mayurbhanj district.

The 15-day fair, which had started in Cuttack in 1951, is being held in Bhubaneswar since 1982.

This time, around 145 kiosks are showcasing indigenous tribal products and 37 exclusive kiosks have been set up for display and sale of various handicrafts items made by the tribal communities.

A variety of natural products from exotic spices to herbs, cereals, ayurvedic medicines, arts and crafts and household utility products are available at the fair.

A number of security arrangements have been made to ensure that the fair is conducted in a peaceful manner. Apart from installing 32 CCTV cameras at various places of the ground, three platoons of police have been deployed.