Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
3. Examine the various threats to nation’s cultural heritage monuments and heritage buildings. What steps should be taken to preserve our heritage? (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India
Why the question:
Rajya Sabha standing committee report raises questions about Archaeological Survey of India’s functioning.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the reasons as to why heritage is under threat and the need to safeguard India’s art heritage and the steps that need to be taken for the same.
Directive word:
Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Explain about what all is included in India’s art heritage – paintings, sculpture, monuments etc
Body:
First, highlight that preserving our heritage is enshrined as a fundamental duty
Next, Examine the threats to art heritage such as Lack of public awareness -This makes the local administrator break the buildings and replace it with other structures, Duplication of paintings and art forms, Theft, Vandalism and Smuggling etc. Discuss why it is crucial to safeguard such heritage such as maintaining identity and pride of our country, tourism etc
Next, Discuss the way forward such as – Strengthening institutions – Ministry of Culture, ASI, Museums, Archives, Cultural awareness programs etc
Conclusion:
Summarize on why this issue requires attention and what needs to be done.
