India has a rich cultural history, denoted in its numerous villages, each with a unique story to tell. The Ministry for Culture has initiated an ambitious project to document every single one of these villages under the Mera Gaon, Meri Dharohar (MGMD) Programme. This endeavor is part of the National Mission on Cultural Mapping, conducted in partnership with the prestigious Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), which falls under the Ministry of Culture. A web portal dedicated to the MGMD has also been launched recently, offering an easy access point to this comprehensive knowledge database.
The MGMD Programme
At the heart of the MGMD effort is the goal to collect and compile comprehensive data detailing the life, history, and ethos of Indian villages. This detailed information will be made available both virtually and in real-time to any visitor interested in exploring the captivating cultural tapestry of India. The MGMD programme is aimed at preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Indian villages and making it accessible to individuals around the world.
Documentation Under Seven Categories
The MGMD project approaches the documentation in a systematic manner, dividing the information into seven broad categories. These categories include “Arts and Crafts Village,” representing regions known for their unique traditional arts and crafts, and “Ecologically Oriented Village,” focusing on communities living in harmony with their natural environment.
Aims of the MGMD Project
The primary objective of the MGMD project is not just to create an exhaustive list of villages and their unique characteristics. Rather, it aims to provide a vivid portrayal of rural India, offering a detailed insight into the lifestyle, history, and culture that shapes these communities.
Web Portal for MGMD
To facilitate easy access to this extensive database, a web portal dedicated to the MGMD project has been launched. This digital platform provides a convenient way for people to learn about the diverse village cultures, art forms, and ecological practices in India. The portal offers virtual visitors a glimpse into the rich history of Indian villages.
Role of IGNCA
The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), under the Ministry of Culture, is a crucial collaborator in the MGMD project. The organization brings its expansive experience and expertise in arts and culture research to help accurately document, categorize, and present the cultural mapping data.
Relation with Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana
While the MGMD project is a standalone initiative aimed at cultural preservation and education, it aligns well with other development initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana. By creating an awareness of the cultural richness of Indian villages, it indirectly contributes to promoting their social and economic development.
The MGMD Programme by the Ministry for Culture marks a significant step towards acknowledging, preserving, and promoting the unique cultural heritage nestled within the heartland of India – its villages. Through this initiative, the diverse tapestry of Indian culture will be easily accessible for all to appreciate and understand.
Last Modified: February 22, 2024