Cultural Exchange and Growth of Kashmir's Craft Industry

For Prelims: World Craft City, Silk Route, Pashmina shawls,  UNESCO Creative City Network, Geographical Indication Tag, Skill India Mission 

For Mains: Significance of cultural heritage in International relations, Challenges and opportunities in handicrafts 

Source: TH

Why in News?

Recently, Artisans from Kashmir and Central Asia reunited after nearly 500 years in Srinagar for a three-day craft exchange initiative, celebrating shared heritage and reviving cultural connections.  

• The event celebrated Srinagar's recognition as a “World Craft City” by the World Crafts Council (WCC). 

How did Central Asia Influence the Development of Crafts in Srinagar? 

• Historical Craft Connections: Zain-ul-Abidin, the 9th Sultan of Kashmir (15th century), introduced Central Asian craft techniques to Kashmir with the help of artisans from Samarkand, Bukhara, and Persia. Post his reign, these connections weakened and came to an end by 1947. 
  • Located on the historic Silk Route, Srinagar became a melting pot of cultural, economic, and artistic exchanges. This cross-cultural interaction played a vital role in the development of Kashmir’s distinctive crafts. 
• Craftsmanship Techniques: 
  • Wood Carving: Kashmiri artisans, known for their intricate woodwork, adopted techniques from Central Asia.  
    • While Kashmiri woodcarvers used chisels and hammers for detailed designs, Iranian woodcarvers typically employed a single chisel for floral motifs. 
  • Carpet Weaving: Kashmir’s carpet weaving was profoundly shaped by Persian techniques.  
    • The Persian knotting methods, including the Farsi baff and Sehna knots, were incorporated into Kashmiri carpets.  
    • Additionally, Kashmir’s carpet patterns named after Iranian cities like Kashan and Tabriz highlight the cultural ties, with artisan exchanges further enhancing skills and inspiring craftsmanship. 
  • Embroidery: Uzbekistan’s suzani embroidery was recognized as a precursor to Kashmir’s sozini work. Similarities were observed in techniques, color palettes, and floral motifs.  

What is the World Craft City? 

• About:  The "World Craft City" initiative, launched in 2014 by the World Crafts Council AISBL (WCC-International) under the WCC-World Craft City Programme, recognizes cities for their contributions to cultural, economic, and social development through crafts. 
  • The WCC AISBL, established in 1964 as a non-profit organization, aims to enhance the status of crafts in cultural and economic life and promote fellowship among crafts persons through support and guidance. 
• Indian Cities: Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir), Jaipur (Rajasthan), Mamallapuram (Tamil Nadu) and Mysore (Karnataka) have been recognized as World Craft Cities by WCC. 
  • The WCC announced the 'Seal of Authenticity of the Craft' for Kashmir's handicrafts, certifying handmade products from J&K. This initiative aims to provide global recognition and enhance quality in the textile industry.  
• Key Crafts of Srinagar: 
  • Pashmina Shawls: Known for their fine quality and intricate handwoven patterns. Pashmina shawls originate from Kashmir, where the Pashmina fabric is hand-spun and hand-woven.  
    • Mughal Emperor Akbar promoted the craft by commissioning shawls for the royal family.  
  • Kashmiri Carpets: Renowned for their rich designs, particularly the traditional Persian-style carpets.  
    • The unique hand-knotted kashmir carpets use a coded script called Taleem for design instructions. These carpets feature traditional oriental and floral motifs and are made from various materials like silk and wool. 
  • Paper Mâché: It is the art of creating objects from molded paper pulp, traditionally painted and lacquered. 
    • In Kashmir, it began with pen cases and evolved into a distinct art of surface decoration (naqashi). 
  • Embroidered Textiles: Fine embroidery techniques like Sozni and Aari work, used in garments and accessories. 
    • Sozni shawls originate from Kashmir, with "Sozni" meaning needle in Persian. 
  • Wood Carving: Intricate designs carved into walnut wood, creating beautiful furniture and home décor. 
  • Copperware: Traditional Kashmiri metal crafts, especially the copper samovars and tea sets. Part of the ancient heritage of Kashmir, with artisans skilled in metallurgy. 
  • Khatamband: It is a handcrafted art of making ceilings by fitting small pieces of walnut or deodar wood into geometric patterns without using nails.

Note

In 2021, Srinagar city was designated a creative city as part of the  UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) Creative City Network (UCCN) for crafts and folk arts. 

• Other Indian cities in the UCCN include Jaipur as the ‘City of Crafts and Folk Arts’ (2015), Varanasi as the ‘Creative City of Music’ (2015), Chennai as the ‘Creative City of Music’ (2017), Mumbai as the ‘City of Film’ (2019), Hyderabad as the ‘City of Gastronomy’ (2019), Kozhikode as the ‘City of Literature’ (2023), and Gwalior as the ‘City of Music’ (2023). 

Geographical Indication Tag for Kashmir Crafts 

• Kashmir's seven crafts including the Kashmiri Carpets, pashmina, sozni, kani shawl, walnut wood carving, khatamband, and papier mache, have earned Geographical Indication (GI) tags under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.  
  • A GI tag ensures that only authorized users or those residing in the specific geographical area can use the product name, protecting the authenticity and heritage of the craft.

How Can Artisans Benefit from Cross-Border Cultural Exchanges?

• Skill Enhancement: Exposure to different techniques and styles can help artisans refine their skills and innovate within their craft, leading to unique and innovative products that stand out in the market. 
• Market Expansion: Cultural exchanges open up new markets, allowing artisans to showcase their work to a global audience and increase their customer base. 
  • By participating in international events, artisans can gain insights into global market trends and adapt their products to meet international demand. Exposure to international buyers can help them achieve financial sustainability, ensuring the preservation of their craft for future generations. 
• Artisans as Cultural Ambassadors: Artisans acting as cultural ambassadors. Showcase their crafts internationally fosters global respect and understanding, while promoting mutual appreciation of diverse traditions.  
  • These interactions help preserve their crafts and contribute to global cultural dialogue, enriching both their artistic practice and economic opportunities. 

What are the Challenges Faced by Kashmiri Artisans? 

• Workforce Participation: Approximately 92% of artisans rely on crafts as their primary source of income, but the income generated is often insufficient, forcing many to take up secondary livelihood options such as agriculture or daily labor. 
• Gender and Wage Disparities: While a significant number of female artisans (63%) are engaged in crafts like Sozni, wage disparities between men and women persist. 
  • Some crafts, such as Khatamband and wood carving, remain male-dominated.  
• Declining Interest in Craft: Many artisans are abandoning traditional crafts in favor of more stable employment opportunities. 
  • A notable percentage (4%) of artisans have already shifted to other forms of livelihood, especially in regions like Dal, where agriculture serves as a secondary income. 
  • The drop in international demand, coupled with competition from cheaper alternatives and  machine-made products, has placed additional pressure on the sector. 
  • Younger generations are often reluctant to continue practicing traditional crafts due to the lack of financial stability, many prefer to pursue careers that offer more economic security and social recognition. 
• Lack of Innovation: There is a lack for innovation and modernization in the craft sector to keep up with changing market demands. 

India’s Initiatives to Promote Handicrafts 

• National Handicraft Development Programme 
• Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme 
• Shilp Didi Mahotsav 
• PM Vishwakarma Scheme 
• Ambedkar Hastshilp Vikas Yojana 
• One District One Product 

Way Forward

• Government Support: Promoting GI Tag recognition for crafts like Kashmir carpets and Pashmina shawls has elevated their status.  
  • Global promotion through online platforms and trade fairs can further help artisans access new markets. Improving the supply chain and supporting local cooperatives can also boost the craft sector's profitability. 
• Educational and Training Programs: Investing in training and skill development for young generations under the Skill India Mission, artisans can help preserve traditional crafts while incorporating modern techniques to appeal to global markets.  
• Tourism Integration: Develop craft tourism circuits in Kashmir, allowing tourists to visit artisan workshops and purchase products directly.  
  • This can boost local economies and provide artisans with a steady income stream. 
• Sustainability Practices: Encourage the use of sustainable and eco-friendly materials in craft production. This can attract environmentally conscious consumers and open up new market segments.

Drishti Mains Question: 

What are the challenges faced by the Kashmiri handicraft sector? Suggest measures to make the sector globally competitive.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Prelims

Q. With reference to ‘Changpa’ community of India, consider the following statements: (2014)

1. They live mainly in the State of Uttarakhand. 
2. They rear the Pashmina goats that yield a fine wool. 
3. They are kept in the category of Scheduled Tribes. 

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

(a) 1 only 
(b) 2 and 3 only 
(c) 3 only 
(d) 1, 2 and 3 

Ans: (b)

Interpreting the Places of Worship Act, 1991

For Prelims: Archaeological Survey of India, Judicial review, Secularism 

For Mains: The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, Related Provisions,Role of the Judiciary in Protecting Secularism 

Source: IE 

Why in News?

The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which preserves the religious character of places of worship, remains contentious amid ongoing legal challenges.  

• The Shahi Jama Masjid dispute in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh has reignited debates over the Act’s applicability.  

What is the Shahi Jama Masjid Dispute? 

• Background of the Dispute: Petitioners claim the 16th Century Jama Masjid in Sambhal was built on the site of an ancient Hari Har Mandir(Hindu temple).  
  • Constructed around 1528 by Mir Hindu Beg, a general under Mughal Emperor Babur, the mosque features distinct stone masonry with a dome and arches, differing from other Mughal mosques made of red sandstone.  
    • Its history and architecture have led to speculation about ties to earlier structures, including a possible Hindu temple.  
  • This mirrors similar disputes in Varanasi, Mathura, and Dhar. Petitioners have sought a survey to determine the site's historical and religious character. 
• Judiciary Involvement: A Sambhal district court ordered a peaceful survey to verify the claims. However, a second survey resulted in violent clashes. 
• Legal Status of the Mosque: The Shahi Jama Masjid is a protected monument under the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act, 1904. It is listed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as a Monument of National Importance. 
• Shahi Jama Masjid and Places of Worship Act, 1991: The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, is at the center of this dispute.  
  • The Act stipulates that the religious character of places of worship as they existed on 15th August 1947, must be preserved, and prohibits any changes to the religious identity of such places.  
  • The Shahi Jama Masjid dispute challenges the Act’s provisions by seeking to alter the mosque's religious character. 

What is the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991? 

• About:  The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, aims to preserve the religious status of places of worship, preventing conversions between different religious denominations or within the same denomination.  
  • The Act seeks to maintain communal harmony by freezing the religious character of these places and preventing disputes over such conversions.  
• Key Provisions of the Act 
  • Section 3: Prohibits the conversion of any place of worship, either in full or in part, from one religious denomination to another.  
  • Section 4(1): Mandates that the religious identity of a place of worship must remain unchanged from its status on 15th August 1947. Any attempt to alter the religious character is prohibited. 
  • Section 4(2): Terminates all ongoing legal proceedings concerning the conversion of a place of worship's religious character prior to 15th August 1947, and prevents the initiation of new cases challenging the religious status of such places. 
  • Section 5 (Exceptions):  The specific dispute at Ayodhya (Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi), which was exempted from the Act. 
    • Besides the Ayodhya dispute, the Act also exempted: Any place of worship which is an ancient and historical monument, or an archaeological site covered by the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. 
    • Cases that have already been resolved or settled by mutual agreement. 
    • Conversions that occurred before the Act’s commencement. 
  • Section 6 (Penalties): The Act establishes strict penalties for violations, including imprisonment of up to three years and fines for attempting to change the religious character of a place of worship. 
• Supreme Court's Interpretation: In May 2022, the Supreme Court noted that inquiries can be allowed into the religious character of places of worship, as long as such inquiries don’t lead to a change in the religious character.  

What are the Concerns Regarding the Places of Worship Act, 1991? 

• Limits Judicial Review: The Act has been challenged for limiting judicial review, potentially undermining the role of the judiciary in resolving disputes. 
• Retrospective Cutoff Date: The Act’s retrospective cutoff date of 15th August 1947, has been criticized as arbitrary and irrational, potentially infringing upon the rights of certain religious communities. 
• Legal Challenges: Multiple petitions have been filed against the Act, with petitioners arguing that it prevents Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs from reclaiming places of worship they believe were "invaded" or "encroached upon" by historical rulers. 
• Exemption for Certain Disputes: The exemption of the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid case from the Act has raised concerns about inconsistency and the potential for selective legal treatment of certain disputes. 
• Rising Communal Tensions: The legal and social debates surrounding the Act are often intertwined with broader communal issues.  
  • Critics argue that challenges to the Act may exacerbate communal tensions, particularly when it comes to sensitive sites like mosques, temples, and churches. 
• Impact on Secularism: The Act was intended to protect India's secular nature by preserving religious harmony, but its critics believe that it may inadvertently allow for the suppression of certain religious communities' claims to historical sites, thus undermining the secular fabric of the nation. 
• Political and Social Implications: The Act is often invoked in political and religious debates, leading to concerns that religious issues could be used to stoke division or mobilize support for political causes. 
  • Some of the ongoing disputes have led to social unrest, with protests and communal tensions erupting over religious site claims, reflecting the deep societal divide over such issues. 

Way Forward 

• Need for Legal Clarity: With varying interpretations of the Act’s provisions, there is a pressing need for the Supreme Court to provide clear and definitive guidelines on the applicability of the Places of Worship Act. 
• Preventing Local Court Overreach: The increasing frequency of local court interventions in sensitive religious matters calls for a closer examination of the jurisdictional limits of lower courts.  
  • The Supreme Court should assert its role in overseeing cases that may have wider social or political implications. 
• De-politicizing Legal Cases: Legal challenges on religious sites should remain free from political influence to prevent misuse for ideological or electoral purposes, ensuring the judiciary's credibility and the sanctity of religious institutions. 
• Focusing on Unity: Both political parties and civil society must prioritize unity over division. It is essential to emphasize the shared cultural and historical heritage that binds India together, irrespective of religion.

Drishti Mains Question: 

Assess the role of the judiciary in resolving disputes related to religious sites, particularly in light of the recent challenges to the Places of Worship Act.

Birth Anniversary of Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh

Source: TH 

Why in News?

Vice-President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar recently paid tributes on the 138th birth anniversary of Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh(1886-1979), a visionary nationalist.

Who is Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh? 

• Background: Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh was born on 1st  December 1886, in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh. 
  • He was a freedom fighter, revolutionary, writer, social reformer, and internationalist. 
• Contribution to Education: Founded Prem Mahavidyalaya in 1909, a technical institute at Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh. It is India’s first polytechnic, to promote indigenous technical education. 
• Freedom Movement Contributions: 
  • Participated in the 1906 Congress session in Kolkata and promoted indigenous industries. Mahendra Pratap was also deeply involved with the Swadeshi movement and would constantly promote small industries with indigenous goods and local artisans. 
  • Mahendra Pratap was deeply involved in India’s struggle for independence. In 1915, during World War I, he proclaimed the first Provisional Government of India in Kabul, Afghanistan, with himself as its president, opposing British colonial rule
    • He sought support from countries like Germany, Japan, and Russia for India’s fight against British colonial rule.   
    • He is said to have met Vladimir Lenin in 1919, two years after the Bolshevik Revolution. 
  • He also formed the Executive Board of India in Japan in 1940 during the Second World War. 
• Internationalist and Peace Advocate: Mahendra Pratap was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1932 for his global advocacy for peace and his efforts to expose British atrocities in India and Afghanistan.  
  • The nomination described Raja as a “Hindu patriot”, “editor of the World Federation”, and “unofficial envoy of Afghanistan”. 
  • In 1929, Mahendra Pratap launched the World Federation in Berlin, which later influenced the creation of the United Nations.  
• Political Career: After independence, he worked hard to promote the idea of Panchayati Raj and served as a Member of Parliament from Mathura (1957). 
• Legacy: Remembered for his crucial role in the Indian independence movement, especially through international diplomacy and creating awareness. 

60th Raising Day of BSF

Source: PIB

Why in News? 

On 1^st December, 2024, Prime Minister extended his greetings to the Border Security Force (BSF) on their 60th  Raising Day, emphasizing the importance of the force in safeguarding India's borders.

What is BSF?

• About: BSF was established in 1965 following the India-Pakistan war to enhance border security. 
  • The BSF has an air wing, marine wing, an artillery regiment, and commando units.  
  • It works under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs. 
• Deployment: The BSF, comprising approximately 2.6 lakh personnel, is deployed on the Indo-Pakistan International Border, Indo-Bangladesh International Border, Line of Control (LoC) along with the Indian Army and in  Anti-Naxal Operations regions.  
• Specialized Operations: The BSF plays a crucial role in safeguarding areas such as Sir Creek in the Arabian Sea and the Sundarbans delta in the Bay of Bengal, utilizing a modern fleet of watercraft. 
  • Additionally, it contributes to the UN peacekeeping Mission by deploying trained personnel to various global locations each year. 
• Jurisdiction of BSF: The BSF secures India’s borders and is empowered to arrest, search, and seize under various laws, including the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) of 1973, Passports Act 1967, Passport (Entry into India) Act 1920, and Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS), 1985. 

Note

Under Article 355, the central government has the authority to deploy its forces to safeguard a state from external aggression and internal disturbance, even in cases where the state has not requested assistance from the Centre and is hesitant to accept central forces. 

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Prelims: 

Q. Department of Border Management is a Department of which one of the following Union Ministries? (2008)

(a) Ministry of Defence 

(b) Ministry of Home Affairs 

(c) Ministry of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways 

(d) Ministry of Environment and Forests 

Ans: (b)

Q. Which one of the following is the best description of ‘INS Astradharini’, that was in the news recently? (2016) 

(a) Amphibious warfare ship 

(b) Nuclear-powered submarine 

(c) Torpedo launch and recovery vessel 

(d) Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier 

Ans: (c)

Bal Vivah Mukht Bharat Abhiyan

Source: PIB 

Why in News?

Recently, the Ministry of Women and Child Development  launched the Bal Vivah Mukht Bharat Abhiyan, a national campaign aimed at eradicating child marriage in India.  

• The campaign aligns with India’s commitment to gender equality and the broader vision of a developed nation (Viksit Bharat) by 2047. 

What are the Key Highlights of the Bal Vivah Mukht Bharat Abhiyan? 

• Child Marriage Free Bharat Portal: An innovative online platform that allows citizens to report child marriage incidents, file complaints, and access information about Child Marriage Prohibition Officers (CMPOs) across the nation. 
  • The launch coincides with the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, a global movement running from 25th November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10th December (Human Rights Day). 
    • CMPOs prevent child marriages, collect prosecution evidence, counsel against such marriages, raise awareness of their harmful effects, and sensitize communities. 
• Pledge Against Child Marriage: This campaign aims to eliminate child marriage and empower every daughter in the nation, highlighting its profound significance in fostering a fair and just society. 
  • The campaign will target states with higher-than-average child marriage rates namely West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Tripura, Assam, and Andhra Pradesh. 
• Acknowledging Achievements:  
  • During the launch of the campaign, the Minister highlighted the significant strides made in the empowerment of women, citing the improvement in the sex ratio at birth from 918 in 2014-15 to 930 in 2023-24.  
  • The portal is a significant step in empowering citizens and enforcing the  Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006,  
    • Under this act, marriages involving girls under 18 and boys under 21 are strictly prohibited. 
• Significance: 
  • Support for Girls' Education and Empowerment: Aligned with the National Education Policy 2020, this campaign reflects ongoing government efforts to promote gender equality through initiatives supporting girls' education and social empowerment. 
  • Eradication of Child Marriage: The campaign acknowledged the significant role of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana in raising awareness. 

What are the Legislative Framework Related to Child Marriage in India? 

• Legislative Framework: India enacted the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act in 2006, establishing the legal age for marriage at 21 for men and 18 for women. 
  • Section 16 of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act allows State Governments to appoint 'Child Marriage Prohibition Officers (CMPO)' for specific areas. 
  • Government has introduced a bill namely 'the Prohibition of Child Marriage (Amendment) Bill, 2021 for raising the age of marriage of women to 21 years to make it at par with the men.  The Bill ultimately lapsed with the dissolution of the 17^th Lok Sabha.
• Laws Related: 
  • POCSO Act: The men who married girls below 14 years of age would be booked under the Protection of Children From Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and those marrying girls between the age of 14 and 18 years would be booked under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), 2006.

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Prelims

Q. With reference to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, consider the following: (2010)

1. The Right to Development 
2. The Right to Expression 
3. The Right to Recreation 

Which of the above is/are the Rights of the child?

(a) 1 only 

(b) 1 and 3 only  

(c) 2 and 3 only  

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (d)

World AIDS Day 2024

Source: PIB 

World AIDS Day, observed on 1st December every year, serves as a platform to raise awareness about HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)/AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), reflect on the progress made, and highlight ongoing efforts to eliminate the disease. 

• 2024 Theme: “Take the rights path: My health, my right!”. 
• AIDS: It is a chronic, life-threatening condition caused by HIV, which attacks the immune system, targeting CD4 cells (white blood cells, vital for the immune system). It spreads through unprotected sex, infected blood, and sharing needles. 
  • While there is no cure, antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus and help restore CD4 cells. 
• Global and National Progress: The Global AIDS Update 2023 highlights a decline in new infections, aiming to eliminate AIDS by 2030. In India, over 2.5 million people live with HIV, with a 44% reduction in new infections since 2010.  
• India’s Response to the HIV/AIDS:  
  • NACP Phase-V (2021-2026): Phase-V aims to reduce new infections and AIDS deaths by 80% (baseline: 2010), eliminate vertical transmission, and combat HIV-related stigma." 
    • The National AIDS and STD Control Programme (NACP), launched in 1992, has been implemented in five phases (Phase I-IV: 1992-2017).

Read more: UNAIDS Global AIDS Update

Network Readiness Index 2024

Source: PIB

Recently, India has climbed 11 positions to rank 49^th in the Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2024, up from 60^th in 2023. This reflects a noteworthy advancement in its digital infrastructure and capabilities.

• About: The Portulans Institute publishes the NRI, which evaluates 133 economies using 54 variables across four key pillars namely Technology, People, Governance, and Impact.
• India's Achievements:
  • India's score improved from 49.93 in 2023 to 53.63 in 2024, indicating substantial progress in various digital metrics and innovations.
  • India secured global rankings across key sectors:
    • 1^st rank globally: AI scientific publications, AI talent concentration, ICT services exports.
    • 2^nd rank globally: Fiber to the Premises (FTTH) Internet subscriptions, mobile broadband traffic, international internet bandwidth.
    • 3^rd rank globally: Domestic market scale.
    • 4^th rank globally: Annual telecom investments.
• Telecom Advancements:
  • India's telecom sector has grown significantly, with tele-density at 84.69%, wireless connections at 119 crore, and internet subscribers rising from 25.1 crore to 94.4 crore.
  • The launch of 5G services in 2022 boosted India's mobile broadband speed ranking from 118^th to 15^th with the Bharat 6G Vision positioning India as a future telecom leader.

Read more...

Zonal Cultural Centres

Source: PIB 

The Ministry of Culture has established 7 Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs) across the country to preserve, promote, and celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of different regions. 

• ZCCs aim to conserve and disseminate the diverse forms of arts and culture from different regions. 
• Festivals such as Hornbill Festival (Nagaland), Octave, Tribal Dance Festival, Adi Bimb, Adi Sapta Pallav, Adi Lok Rang, and Adiwasi Mahotsav are organized through ZCCs. 
• Tribal Research Institutes and Tribal Research, Information, Education, Communication and Events (TRI-ECE) work to conserve and promote tribal culture, archives, artifacts, customs, and traditions. 
  • Reputed organizations and universities conduct research studies on tribal culture and pressing issues faced by the tribes.

Zonal Cultural Centres	Headquarter
North Zone Cultural Centre	Patiala
South Zone Cultural Centre	Thanjavur
South Central Zone Cultural Centre	Nagpur
West Zone Cultural Centre	Udaipur
North Central Zone Cultural Centre	Prayagraj
Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre	Kolkata
North East Zone Cultural Centre	Dimapur

Read More: Tribes in India 

E-Daakhil Portal

Source: PIB

The E-Daakhil portal, launched nationwide by the Department of Consumer Affairs, is now operational in all states and union territories, with its latest launch in Ladakh in November 2024.

• About: The E-Daakhil portal was launched on 7^th September 2020 by the National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission under the Consumer Protection Act 2019, amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Features:
  • It provides an inexpensive, speedy, and hassle-free mechanism for filing consumer complaints online.
  • It lets consumers file complaints, pay fees, and track cases from home. Registration is simple via OTP on mobile phones or email addresses.
• Usage and Impact:
  • Over 281,024 users have registered on the portal, with 198,725 cases filed and 38,453 resolved, addressing issues like faulty product compensation and financial grievances.
• Integration with E-Daakhil: The government is also developing e-Jagriti, a platform to enhance case filing and resolution, aiming to transform consumer justice in India.

Read more...