India’s Global Engagement Scheme Boosts Cultural Diplomacy
The Ministry of Culture’s Global Engagement Scheme is set to enhance India’s cultural presence on the international stage. This initiative aims to strengthen cultural ties with foreign nations, promote bilateral contacts, and showcase India’s rich heritage, particularly from Maharashtra. With a focus on encouraging inbound tourism, the scheme is administered through Indian Missions abroad and comprises several key components.
Objectives of the Global Engagement Scheme
The Global Engagement Scheme has several primary objectives. It seeks to foster stronger cultural connections with countries around the world, thereby enhancing India’s global image. By promoting bilateral cultural exchanges, the initiative aims to project India’s diverse cultural identity on the world stage. Additionally, the scheme is designed to attract international tourists, showcasing the richness of Indian culture and heritage. Through these efforts, the Ministry of Culture hopes to create a lasting impact on India’s cultural diplomacy.
Components of the Scheme
The Global Engagement Scheme consists of three main components. The first is the “Festival of India,” which provides a platform for Indian artists to perform abroad. This festival showcases a variety of art forms, including folk music, dance, theatre, and contemporary performances. Artists from diverse backgrounds are selected from an empanelled list maintained by the Ministry of Culture, ensuring a wide representation of Indian culture.
The second component involves grants to Indo-Foreign Friendship Cultural Societies. These grants are aimed at fostering closer ties and cultural interactions between India and other nations. The third component includes contributions to international organizations of which India is a member, such as UNESCO. These contributions support various cultural initiatives and conventions that promote the safeguarding of cultural heritage globally.
Participation of Maharashtra Artists
Among the 627 artists and groups empanelled by the Ministry, 37 hail from Maharashtra. These artists have had the opportunity to represent India in various international festivals. Notably, seven artists and troupes from Maharashtra have performed in several countries, including Oman, the Netherlands, Ghana, Venezuela, Vietnam, Qatar, and South Africa, over the past few years. The Government covers all expenses related to these performances, highlighting its commitment to promoting Indian culture abroad.
This information was shared by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in a written response to the Lok Sabha, emphasizing the government’s dedication to cultural diplomacy and international engagement.
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