In a significant move towards the preservation and promotion of tribal culture and heritage, Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Arjun Munda, has recently inaugurated several pivotal projects. Among these, the laying of the foundation stone for a new Centre for Preservation and Promotion of Tribal Culture & Heritage at Padampur in SERAIKELA KHARSAWAN district, Jharkhand, stands out. Furthermore, the renovation and inauguration of the National Tribal Museum, an e-Library, and an ST Girls’ hostel at Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sanghathan (BAJSS) in New Delhi mark a watershed moment in India’s efforts to preserve its rich tribal legacy.
The Centre for Preservation and Promotion of Tribal Culture & Heritage
- Location and Funding: Situated in Padampur, SERAIKELA KHARSAWAN district of Jharkhand, this centre is a landmark initiative funded with a budget of Rs. 10 crores by the Union Ministry for Tribal Affairs.
- Aims and Objectives: The centre is dedicated to showcasing both the tangible and intangible aspects of tribal culture, history, and heritage. It is envisioned as a dynamic knowledge and information hub to support tribal communities’ development.
- Future Prospects: Plans are underway to evolve this centre into a living museum where artisans can demonstrate their skills and serve as a focal point for tourism.
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Renovation and Inauguration at Bharatiya Adim Jati Sevak Sanghathan (BAJSS)
- Historical Significance: Founded by Shri Amritlal Vithaldas Thakkar in 1948, BAJSS has been instrumental in uplifting tribal communities. The renovation of its museum, library, and hostel underscores the ongoing commitment to tribal welfare.
- Projects and Funding: Over Rs. 3 crores were allocated for the revival of the museum and digitalization efforts, aiming to safeguard and make accessible the cultural heritage and rare books related to tribal communities.
- Digitalization and Accessibility: The introduction of an e-Library and digital kiosks enhances the accessibility of rare materials and information, making it a significant step towards preserving tribal culture in the digital age.
Importance and Impact
- Preservation of Culture: These initiatives reflect a concerted effort to protect and celebrate the rich tribal culture and heritage, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of India’s cultural mosaic.
- Empowerment through Knowledge: By providing tribal communities with access to knowledge and a platform to showcase their culture, these projects contribute to the broader goal of empowerment and self-reliance.
- Tourism and Awareness: The establishment of these centers also opens new avenues for tourism and greater awareness among the general public about the diverse tribal cultures in India.
Conclusion
The foundation stone laying for the Centre for Preservation and Promotion of Tribal Culture & Heritage, alongside the renovation of the National Tribal Museum, e-Library, and ST Girls’ hostel, marks a monumental step towards honoring and preserving India’s tribal legacy. Under the visionary leadership of Shri Arjun Munda and the principles set by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, these initiatives symbolize a bridge between traditional wisdom and modern development. They underscore the critical role of culture and heritage in nation-building and the empowerment of tribal communities, paving the way for a more inclusive and enriched Indian society.
MCQs
- Who inaugurated the Centre for Preservation and Promotion of Tribal Culture & Heritage?
- A) The Prime Minister
- B) The President
- C) The Union Minister for Tribal Affairs
- D) The Director of National Tribal Research Institute
- Answer: C) The Union Minister for Tribal Affairs
- Where is the newly announced Centre for Preservation and Promotion of Tribal Culture & Heritage located?
- A) New Delhi
- B) Mumbai
- C) Padampur, SERAIKELA KHARSAWAN district, Jharkhand
- D) Kolkata
- Answer: C) Padampur, SERAIKELA KHARSAWAN district, Jharkhand
- What is the budget allocated for the establishment of the Centre in SERAIKELA KHARSAWAN district, Jharkhand?
- A) Rs. 5 crores
- B) Rs. 10 crores
- C) Rs. 15 crores
- D) Rs. 20 crores
- Answer: B) Rs. 10 crores
Src: PIB
