The National Mission on Cultural Mapping, initiated by the Ministry of Culture in India, represents a significant endeavor to catalog and preserve the rich tapestry of the country’s artistic heritage. This mission was inaugurated in 2017 with a substantial financial plan aimed at creating a detailed database of artists, various art forms, and resources linked to the ministry’s organizations. Despite its ambitious goals, the mission faced challenges in achieving its intended progress. In an effort to revitalize the initiative, responsibility for the mission has been transferred to the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), which is gearing up for a trial run in select villages.
Overview of the National Mission on Cultural Mapping
The National Mission on Cultural Mapping was set in motion with a considerable budget of Rs.469 crore. The timeframe for implementation spanned from the fiscal year 2017-18 to 2019-20. The primary aim of this mission is to construct an exhaustive database that would encompass information about individual artists, diverse art forms, and the array of resources connected to entities under the purview of the Culture Ministry. Such a database is envisioned to serve as a foundational tool for preserving and promoting India’s cultural heritage both domestically and internationally.
Challenges and Limited Progress
Despite its clear objectives and the availability of funds, the mission encountered hurdles that led to limited advancement in the years following its launch. The reasons for the slow progress were not clearly outlined in public forums, but the lack of significant development prompted a reevaluation of the mission’s strategy and management. The need for a more effective approach to realize the goals of the mission became evident.
Transfer to the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts
In response to the stagnation faced by the National Mission on Cultural Mapping, the responsibility for driving the mission forward was shifted to the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts. The IGNCA, an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Culture, is known for its dedication to the conservation and promotion of Indian arts and culture. With its expertise and resources, the IGNCA is expected to infuse new life into the mission and steer it towards achieving its objectives.
Preparation for Trial Run in Villages
The IGNCA has taken proactive steps to jumpstart the mission by planning a trial run in 75 villages, which is scheduled for October. This pilot phase is crucial for testing the methodologies and processes that will be employed in the larger-scale data collection across the country. The trial run aims to refine the data-gathering techniques, ensure the accuracy of the information collected, and address any logistical challenges that may arise during the process.
The selection of these villages for the trial run is likely based on a variety of factors, including geographical diversity, the prevalence of unique art forms, and the availability of artists and cultural organizations within the communities. By starting with a smaller, manageable number of villages, the IGNCA can closely monitor the execution of the mission’s activities and make necessary adjustments before expanding to other areas.
Implications for India’s Cultural Heritage
The successful implementation of the National Mission on Cultural Mapping holds significant implications for the preservation and celebration of India’s cultural heritage. By compiling a detailed database, the government can facilitate better policy-making, allocate resources more effectively, and create targeted programs to support artists and art forms that may be at risk of decline. Additionally, the database can serve as a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge about India’s cultural landscape.
Moreover, the mission has the potential to foster greater appreciation and understanding of the country’s diverse cultural expressions among the general public. It can also contribute to the economic empowerment of artists by increasing visibility and access to new opportunities. In the long term, the National Mission on Cultural Mapping aims to strengthen the cultural fabric of India and ensure that its artistic legacy is preserved for future generations.
