Test Series: UPSC IAS Prelims Exam 2020
India has a vast basket of diverse art and cultural heritage which need institutional support and encouragement to address areas critical for their survival and preservation.
We need to preserve our art heritage because of the following reasons.
- Presently, many Indian art forms are on the verge of extinction such as Manjusha painting of Bihar, traditional art of Puppetry, Parsi embroidery, Naga craft, Dhokra handicraft, etc., which need protection and preservation.
- India has a unique identity in the world for its art and culture which represents Indian civilization on world platform and if it vanishes the uniqueness of India will get affected.
- For many tribal communities, art and craft is the source of income.
- This is also the source of attraction for tourism which contributes to economic development of the country.
- Art heritage also represents “unity in diversity” of India and builds a bridge between people living abroad to get connected with their native country.
- Art and culture is also a part of soft power in world politics.
Government has started many initiatives to preserve the rich art heritage of the country, such as, Scheme for Conservation of Wall Painting (1996-97), Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programe, Tribal haats, GI tag to the local products, e-haat, etc. Apart from strict implementation of such programmes, Government should provide financial assistance to strengthen regional and local museums, preserve art heritage through virtual media, and promote local paintings on products like wallet, mobile cover, pillow cover, etc.