Miscellaneous/Facts

MISCELLANEOUS/FACTS

PAINTINGS, ART, CRAFTS, DANCE FORMS

MADHUBANI:  Madhubani art (or Mithila painting) is a style of Indian painting, practiced in the Mithila region of the Indian subcontinent. It originated from Madhubani district of the Mithila region of Bihar.  This painting is done with a variety of tools, including fingers, twigs, brushes, nib-pens, and matchsticks and using natural dyes and pigments.  It is characterized by its eye-catching geometrical patterns. There is ritual content for particular occasions, such as birth or marriage, and festivals, such as Holi, Surya Shasti, Kali Puja, Upanayana, and Durga Puja.  Madhubani painting has received GI (Geographical Indication) status.

CHHAU DANCE

Regions: Seraikella (Jharkhand), Purulia (West Bengal) and Mayurbhanj (Odisha). Origin:The origin of the dance is traceable to indigenous forms of dance and martial practices.It is also intimately connected to regional festivals notably the spring festival Chaitra Parva. Features:The dance is performed at night in an open space to traditional and folk melodies played on the reed pipes mohuri and shehnai. In 2010,it was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

ZARDOZI ART  Regions:Zardozi or Zar-douzi, also Zardosi work is a type of embroidery in Iran, Azerbaijan, Iraq, Kuwait, Syria, Turkey, Central Asia, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.  Meaning: Zardozi comes from two Persian words: zar or zarin meaning 'gold', and dozi meaning 'sewing'.  Zardozi work in India  Gold embroidery has existed in India since the time of the Rigveda, between 1500 and 1200 BC.  It prospered during the 17th century during the reign of the Mughal emperor Akbar, but later a loss of royal patronage and industrialization led to its decline. The craft began to experience a resurgence in popularity following India's independence in 1947  Today, zardozi is popular in the Indian cities of Lucknow, Farrukhabad, Chennai and Bhopal.  In 2013, the Geographical Indication Registry (GIR) accorded Geographical Indication (GI) registration to the Lucknow zardozi .

Intangible culture

Why in news? Manipur’s tradition of making rice beer, the practice of tying turbans in Rajasthan and several different dances, forms of music and festivals from across the country were among the 106 items listed as intangible cultural heritage in a draft.

Examples of Intangible culture.  Devotional music of Qawwali and the music of the oldest instrument in the country, the Veena. The Kumbh Mela and Ramlila traditions  folk festival of Pachoti in Assam .  Kinnar Kanthgeet and compositions of Ameer Khusro are among the entries from Delhi .  The making of khor, a rice beer, by the Tangkhul community in Manipur  From Jammu and Kashmir, the Kalam Bhat or Qalambaft gharana of Sufiana music in Budgam district and from Ladakh, the Buddhist chanting across both Leh and Kargil districts were on the list of intangible cultural heritage .

 Kerala’s martial art form, Kalaripayuttu, and the practice of making designs at the entrance of homes and temples called kolam in Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh

BANDINI  Bandhani is a type of tie-dye textile decorated by plucking the cloth with the fingernails into many tiny bindings that form a figurative design. The term bandhani is derived from the Sanskrit verbal root bandh ("to bind, to tie").  Today, most Bandhani making centers are situated in Gujarat,Rajasthan, Sindh, Punjab region and in Tamil Nadu where it is known as Sungudi.  Earliest evidence of Bandhani dates back to Indus Valley Civilization where dyeing was done as early as 4000 B.C.  The earliest example of the most pervasive type of Bandhani dots can be seen in the 6th century paintings depicting the life of Buddha found on the wall of Cave 1 at Ajanta

TRADITIONAL FOLK THEATRE OF INDIA KOODIYATTAM  One of the oldest traditional theatre forms of India, Koodiyattam follows the performative principles of the ancient tradition of Sanskrit theatre.

 However, it has its own distinctive characteristics that are firmly rooted in the culture of Kerala.  This theatre was traditionally a part of temple rituals performed in sacred theaters, called Koothambalams. In 2001, Koodiyattam was officially recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

YAKSHAGANA  Yakshagana is a popular folk theatre form of Karnataka with a long history of nearly four hundred years.  It is a unique harmony of musical tradition, eye-catching costumes, and authentic styles of dance, improvised gestures and acting, with its extemporaneous dialogue holding a wide appeal.  The themes are generally derived from the mythological stories and epics. Traditionally presented from dusk to dawn, this folk theatre is predominantly seen in the coastal districts of Karnataka.

SWANG  A popular folk theatre form in Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, Swang is centered around music.  In this folk theatre, religious stories and folk tales are enacted and sung by a group of a dozen or so artistes.  Characterized by loud rendering of dialogues and songs (a legacy of its open air performances in the past), Swang has two important styles – one that belong to Rohtak (performed in the

Bangru language)and the other that belongs to Haathras (performed in the Brajbhasha language).

BHAND PATHER  The centuries old traditional theatre form of Kashmir, bhand pather is a unique combination of dance, music and acting. Satire, wit and parody are commonly used in this folk drama that incorporates local mythological legends and contemporary social commentary.  Traditionally, the performances begin in the evening with a ritualistic dance called chhok.

THERUKOOTHU  A unique form of rural entertainment in Tamil Nadu, therukoothu literally means street theatre.

RAMMAN It is a ritual theatre that is a part of a religious festival in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.

ANKIYA NAAT BHAONA  Bhaona is a presentation of the Ankiya Naat, a one-act play that has its roots in rural Assam.  A creation of Srimanta Sankardeva (an Assamese saint-scholar), these plays were written in Brajavali, a unique Assamese- Maithili mixed language, and are primarily centered on Hindu diety, Krishna.

TAMASHA  A traditional folk theatre form of Maharashtra, tamasha flourished in the courts of Maratha rulers of the 18th and 19th centuries and attained its artistic peak during the reign of Baji Rao II .  It has evolved from the folk forms such as gondhal, jagran and kirtan.

 Unlike other theatre forms, in tamasha, the female actress is the lead performer and the chief exponent of dance in the play.

BHAVAI  Bhavai is the traditional theatre form of the Kutch and Katiawar region of Gujarat.  Subtle social criticism laced with humour is the speciality of this theatre that also uses instruments like the bhungal, pakhaawaj, rabaab, sarangi and manjeera.

DASHAVATAR  Dashavatar is a folk theatre form practiced by farmers of the Konkan coast Sindhudurg district of of Maharashtra and the North Goa district of Goa.

KARYALA  A traditional folk theatre form of Himachal Pradesh, karyala is normally performed around the Dussehra festival, i.e. in October-November.  With local variants all over Himachal Pradesh (banthada in Mandi, budechhu in Sirmaur and bhagtu in Kangra), karyala generally derives its theme from the daily life and concerns of the villagers.

FESTIVALS

FESTIVAL NAME PLACE OCCASION Petta Thullal Kerala  It is the ritualistic sacred dance to celebrate the victory of good over evil in the legend of Lord Ayyappa.  During annual Sabarimala pilgrimage season.  Performed during the Mandalam Makaravilakku period (November, December and January). Bohag Bihu Assam  Celebrated during the middle the month of April. This marks the beginning of the new Assamese calendar year started (around April 15).  In Assam, three Bihu festivals are celebrated in a year called as RongaliBihu or BohagBihu, Bhugali (MaghBihu) and Kangali (Kati Bihu) for marking the distinctive phase in the farming calendar. Vaisakhi(baisaki). Sikhs. Vishu. Kerala. Harvest festivals of NabaBarsha Bengal. different states. PuthanduPirappu Tamil Nadu

The Iranian New Year, Persian New Year or the Parsi New Year will be celebrated on March 20 in India. While the festival is a Navroz holy festival for the Zoroastrian, some Muslim and Iranian communities, it is celebrated by several faiths across the world

 Festival is the spring festival in Goa Shigmo Goa celebrated by the Konkani diaspora of Goa, with a lot of pompous and splendour.  This festival takes place in the Phalguna month, according to the Saka calendar of the Hindu community living in Goa. rakuUtsav Andhra Pradesh  Araku Valley is a hill station and valley region in the southeastern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is surrounded by the thick forests of the Eastern Ghats mountain range

Ambubachi Mela Guwahati,Kamakhya Temple  This mela is also known as Ameti or Tantric fertility festival since it is closely associated with Tantric Shakti cult prevalent in eastern parts of India. Even some Tantric Babas make their public appearances only during these four days.  Temple priests said the ritualistic fair celebrating the Goddess’ period is one of the reasons why taboo associated with menstruation is less in Assam compared to other parts of India.  The attainment of womanhood of girls in Assam is celebrated with a ritual called Tuloni Biya, meaning small wedding.

Bishnu sendra parva Jharkhand and the Annual hunting festival neighbouring Odisha and observed by tribals. West Bengal, Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary (DWS Lai haraoba Assam, Tripura, Manipur,  Festival is celebrated Meghalaya, Myanmar and by Meitei people to Bangladesh. please sacred trees called “Umang Lai”.  The Lai Haraoba Festival in the state of Manipur is celebrated in the month of May.  Umang Lai are the sacred trees that are preserved for the local forest deities.  The trees have significant place in Sanamahism.  The Language Meiteilon (also called Manipuri) is included in the Eighth Schedule of Constitution of India.

Kanwar Yatra Haridwar, Gaumukh and The Kanwar Yatra is an annual Gangotri in Uttarakhand pilgrimage of devotees of Shiva, and Sultanganj in Bihar to known as Kanvarias or "Bhole", fetch holy waters of to Hindu pilgrimage places. Ganges River Bonalu festival Telangana Celebrated during the month of Aashadam (in July- August) in Telangana, Bonalu is a thanks giving festival dedicated to Goddess Mahankali. Nuakhai Juhar  It is one of the most Odisha, Chhattisgarh ancient festivals celebrated in Odisha, Chhattisgarh and areas of neighbouring states to welcome the new crop of the season,

 Nuakhai Juhar is the agricultural festival is

also called Nuakhai Parab or Nuakahi Bhetghat.

Thiruvonam Kerala  Biggest harvest festival  Onam is being celebrated by all Keralaites irrespective of religion symbolising secularism and harmony.  The Onam or Thiruvonamfestival falls during the Malayalam month of Chingam (August- September). It is reminiscent of Kerala’s agrarian past and is considered to be a harvest festival.  It is also the state festival of Kerala.

Madhavpur mela Gujarat  The eight States of the Northern Eastern Region will participate in a big way during the Madhavpur Mela of Gujarat due to be held in the first week of April 2020. The annual fair is held at MadhavpurGhed in Porbandar district.  It connect to the Mishmi Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh.  The festival celebrates the immortal journey which Rukmini undertook from Arunachal Pradesh to Gujarat with Lord Krishna

GI TAGS

It has given the Geographical Indications Registry which is headquartered in Chennai GI is an indication used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. Such a name conveys an assurance of quality and distinctiveness which is essentially attributable to its origin in that defined geographical locality.

SOHRAI KHOVAR PAINTING Origin : Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand.

Features : A traditional and ritualistic mural art being practised by tribal women during local harvest and marriage seasons using local, naturally available soils of different colours. GI Status : Got Geographical Indication status for which the application made by Sorhai Kala Mahila Vilas Sahayog Samiti Limited .

Features:  Handmade work with cotton loom displaying a variety of designs and motifs in three particular colours- red, black and white.  GI Status given on the basis of application made by Consortium Puttapaka Handloom Cluster –IHDS. The details provided in the application filed with the Geographical Indications Registry shows that Telia Rumal can only be created using the traditional handloom process and not by any other mechanical means as otherwise, the very quality of the Final would be lost.

TELANGANA RELIABLE RUMAL • Origin : During the Nizam’s dynasty, Puttapaka, a small backward Village of Telangana state had about 20 families engaged in handloom weaving, who were patronised by rich Muslim families and Nizam rulers.

Historical aspects : • Chituki Reliable Primal was worn by officers of Nizam Court as a symbol of status. • Offered at dargah of Ajmer Sharif in Rajasthan with some devotees offering 50 or even 100 cloths. • Worn by princesses at the erstwhile court of Nizam of Hyderabad; and as a turban cloth by Arabs in the Middle East.

MANIPUR BLACK RICE CHAK -HAO

Background : A scented glutinous rice which has been in cultivation in Manipur over centuries,is characterised by its special aroma. It is normally eaten during community feasts and is served as Chak-Hao kheer. • Chak-Hao has also been used by traditional medical practitioners as a part of traditional medicine. Applicant: Department of Agriculture, Government of Manipur and North East Regional Agricultural Marketing Cooperation Limited (NERAMAC)

Special Features : According to the GI application filed, this rice takes the longest cooking time of 40-45 minutes due to the presence of a fibrous bran layer and higher crude fibre content.

GORAKHPUR TERRACOTTA Origin : The terracotta work of Gorakhpur in Utter Pradesh is a centuries-old traditional art form,

Features: where the potters make various animal figures like, horses, elephants, camel, goat, ox, etc. with hand-applied ornamentation. Some of the major products of craftsmanship include the Hauda elephants, Mahawatdar horse, deer, camel, five-faced Ganesha, singled-faced Ganesha, elephant table, chandeliers, hanging bells etc. The entire work is done with bare hands and artisans use natural colour, which stays fast for a long time. There are more than 1,000 varieties of terracotta work designed by the local craftsmen.

Applicant: Gorakhpur teracotta, the application was filed by Laxmi Terracotta Murtikala Kendra in Uttar Pradesh.

THANJAVUR NETTI WORKS About Thanjavur Netti Works

• IPR Attorney and GI Advocate Sanjai Gandhi, who was instrumental in getting the GI tag for the products, said, “Thanjavur Netti Works (Thanjavur Pith Work) is made from pith. The pith is obtained from netti, a hydrophyte plant called as Aeschynomene aspera. The artisans are skilled in this particular craft and this art is traditionally transferred from their forefathers.” • The lakes around Pudukottai (Pudukullam & Kallaperumbur lake) are surrounded with marshy land which favours the growth of the hydrophytic plant. The soil found in Thanjavur is favourable for the growth of the plant that is used for the production of pith handicraft based in Thanjavur. • The notable works from Thanjavur Netti Works include models of the Brihadeeshwara Temple, Hindu idols, garlands, door hangings and show pieces used for decoration. The pith stems are found in and around the Thanjavur region and Managed.

ARUMBAVUR WOOD CARVING • It is done at Arumbavur and around the Veppanthattai taluk of Perambalur district, Tamil Nadu. The wood carvings are primarily made out of wooden logs of Indian siris (Poo Vaagai, Albizia lebbeck), mango (Mangifera indica), lingam tree (Mavilangam), Indian ash tree (Othiyan – Odina wodier), rosewood, neem tree (Vembu – Azadirachta indica). • The carvings in Arambavur Wood Carvings are often inspired by architectural details on temple sculptures and carvings.

KASHMIR SAFFRON

Kashmir saffron, which is a spice and health rejuvenator and the pride of Jammu and Kashmir, has been given geographical indication (GI) tag, protecting the uniqueness of the farm produce. • The unique characteristics of Kashmir saffron are described as longer and thicker stigmas, natural deep-red colour of stigmas, high aroma, bitter flavour, chemical-free processing and high quantity of crocin (colouring strength), safranal (flavour) and picrocrocin (bitterness). Kashmir by local farmers. This produce is famous all over the world as a spice, health rejuvenator and is also used for cosmetics as well as for medicinal purposes.

THAMAPATTI WOOD CRAVINGS

It is a signature artwork of artisans in Salem region of Tamil and is set to become Tami Nadu ‘s 36th GI product. • Applicant: The GI registry’s recognition for the idols of Hindu gods , mythological events and stories, door designs, door panels and temple doors comes on joint application made by Silpa Graham Thammapatti Wood Craver Artisan Welfare Association and Tamil Nadu Handicraft Development Corporation Limited (Poomphur). • As the proof of origin and history of the product, the registry was informed that Oddar Community had attained mastery in the wood carving art and intricate technical knowledge is passed down to generations of wood cravers by legacy. It has been thriving in Salem area for more than 75 Years, and Thammampatti Shri Ugra Natasha Swami’s temple car was made by them in 1948. • Special Feature: The artisans use woods such as thoongavaagai (samaneasaman) found in agriculture lands • Vaagai (albizzia lebbek) which has natural luster, mavilangai (crataeve Roxburgh) which on the edges of rivers and lakes, atti (ficus glometrea),which is a large deciduous tree having smooth white bark best suited for ornamental purpose and temple

vahanas, and teak which is hard wood usually brown in colour with good grains and texture. • At present, Thammampatti artisans mould their traditional style as per the need and choice of customers. The cravings are regularly displayed in Salem District Pavilion at All India Tourist Festival in Madras. They are also exported for house hold decorations abroad.

THE PALINI PANCHAMRITAM

First prasadam in T.N. to get the status. • The famous Palani panchamirtham, given as ‘prasadam’ at the Murugan temple there, has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. • The application was filed by the Joint Commissioner/Executive Officer, Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Thirukkoil, North Giriveethi, Adivaram, Palani. • The panchamirtham is a combination of five natural substances — banana, jaggery, cow ghee, honey and cardamom. Dates and diamond sugar candies are added for flavour. • The panchamirtham is an ‘abhishega prasadam’ (food that is a religious offering), which is served in a semi-solid state. It is sweet in taste and one of the main offerings for Lord Dhandayuthapani Swamy, the presiding deity of Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple, situated on Palani Hills. • Not even a single drop of water is added during the preparation of the panchamirtham. This gives it its classic semi-solid consistency and taste. No preservatives or artificial ingredients are used. • As per the GI application, the geographical area for production of panchamirtham is Palani town in Dindigul district, Tamil Nadu. It lies within latitude of 10.44 ° and longitude of 77.52 °. • According to the GI application filed, the Palani panchamirtham is prepared under the guidance given by the CFTRI (Central Food Technological Research Institute) Mysore, a government of India undertaking.

• The whole process of producing the panchamirtham is automated. It is doubly ensured that the hygienic aspects are maintained. Devotees who visit the temple are offered the panchamirtham as a prasadam in the hill temple as well as in stalls run by temple administration at Adivaram. Is is believed that the panchamirtham cures diseases of devotees.

TAWLHLOHPUAN

“Tawlhlohpuan, a medium to heavy, compactly woven, good quality fabric from Mizoram is known for warp yarns, warping, weaving & intricate designs that are made by hand. Tawlhloh, in Mizo language, means ‘to stand firm or not to move backward’,” added the release. Tawlhlohpuan, which holds high significance in the Mizo society, is produced throughout the state of Mizoram, Aizawl and Thenzawl town being the main centre of production.

MIZO PUANCHEI

It is a colourful Mizo shawl and is considered as the most colourful among the Mizo textiles. It is an essential possession for every Mizo lady and an important marriage outfit in the state. It is also the most commonly used costume in Mizo festive dances and official ceremonies. The weavers insert the designs and motifs by using supplementary yarns while weaving to create this beautiful and alluring textile.

TIRUR VETTILA

Origin : Produced in Tirur and nearby areas of Malappuram district, Kerala. Features : Tirur Vettila is unique for its significantly high content of total chlorophyll and protein in fresh leaves. • Eugenol is the major essential oil in Tirur betel leaf contributing to its pungency. It’s shelf period is also more compared to other betel leaves, said by, Director of Research, KAU. Eugenol is the major essential oil in Tirur betel leaf contributing to its

pungency. It’s shelf period is also more compared to other betel leaves. • Tirur, Tanur, Tirurangadi, Kuttippuram, Malappuram and vengara are the Block panchayats famous for cultivation of Tirur betel leaf. Puthukodi and Nadan are the most common betel vine cultivars of the area. • About 60 % of Tirur Vettila is transported to Delhi, Mumbai, Jaypore and Itarsi by rail and from there it is also marketed to Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.

Applicants : It is a joint initiative taken by the IPR cell of the Kerala Agricultural University in association with the State Department of Agriculture Development and Farmers’ Welfare and Tirur Vettila farmers that has reached its final destination. Uses: possibility of using betel leaf extracts in the pharmaceutical sector is to be explored further,” Dr. Elsy, Coordinator IPR Cell-KAU suggested. ‘‘Betel leaf is traditionally known to be useful for the treatment of various diseases. Vettila is a component of ‘Thampooladhi thylam’ and is also used in preparation of indigenous medicines to treat cough,” she noted.Chewing vettila after food enhances digestion. In India betel leaf is routinely served during social, cultural and religious occasions.

DINDIGUL LOCK:

Lock City • The famous Dindigul locks are known throughout the world for their superior quality and durability, so much so that even the city is called Lock City. • The abundance of iron in this region is the reason for the growth of the lock-making industry. • Though machine-made locks are easily available, government institutions like prisons, godowns, hospitals and even temples use the older pattern locks. These lock manufacturing units are limited to an area of 5 km in and around Dindigul. There are over 50 varieties of locks made by the artisans.

• But over the last few years, this industry has been slowly dying due to competition from Aligarh and Rajapalayam. Marketing these locks has also been a challenge. • A, lock maker, who runs Jegankumar Industries in Nagal Nagar, said, “The lock industry in Dindigul is focussed [more] on quality than production (referring to quantity). Aligarh replicates mechanisms from here but produces in large quantities. The GI tag will help people differentiate Dindigul locks from others.” He added that several people have moved away from the craft due to meagre wages and waning demand. • Currently, this industry is worth over Rs 20 crore per annum.

KANDANGI SAREE

Manufactured in Karaikudi taluk in Sivaganga district, is facing challenges similar to Dindigul lock’s. V. Krishnaveni, who runs Sri Mahalakshmi Handloom Weaving Centre in Kanadukathan, said the GI tag for the Kandangi saree will help revive lost patronage. The market is flooded with sarees that are woven in other parts of the State and look like the Kandangi saree.

• The original Kandangi saree is manually made using a winding machine, loom, shuttle and bobbin. It is a team effort of the families who live in the town of Karaikudi and it forms part of their livelihood. These sarees are characterised by the large contrast borders, and some of them are known to have borders covering as much as two-thirds of the saree. • The sarees are usually around 5.10 meters – 5.60 meters in length. The Kandangi sarees exude brilliant colours like bright yellow, orange, red and a minimal black in the traditional pattern of stripes or checks with broad borders woven in coarse cotton. Over the years, more interesting colours have been introduced for the saree, which is worn in a particular manner.

KOLHAPURI CHAPPALS • Kolhapuris, the sturdy leather chappal that rose from its humble rural origins to occupy the high table of fashion globally, now has a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. • Brand Kolhapuri came into being only in the beginning of 20th century when the footwear began to be traded in Kolhapur. Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj (1874-1922) of Kolhapur encouraged its production and 29 tanning centres were opened during his rule in Kolhapur, said the proposal.

Entry into large market The GI tag will open large markets – both domestic and international – to the artisans producing Kolhapuris in Kolhapur, Solapur, Sangli and Satara districts of Maharashtra and Dharwad, Belgaum, Bagalkot and Bijapur districts of Karnataka.

DEVANHALLI CHAKOTA

• Devanahalli pomelo or chakota, a citrus variety almost on the brink of extinction, is now set to receive a new lease of life. Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) which owns and operates Kempegowda International Airport (BLR-Airport), as part of the 50th anniversary of World Earth Day, hopes to conserve the endangered fruit by cultivating it within the airport campus. The Devanahalli pomelo, which comes with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, has a unique, sweet taste, unlike other varieties. Hectares of pomelo plantation, which once dotted Devanahalli region, have now all but vanished. Currently, there are less than 100 cultivators in the area. • Now as part of its flagship Corporate social responsibility(CSR) Programme Namma Ooru, BIAL will plant 500 pomelo trees.

KALA KUMBH Handicrafts Exhibitions for promotion of GI Crafts With an objective to promote Geographical Indication (GI) crafts and heritage of India the Ministry of Textiles is organising Kala Kumbh -

Handicrafts Thematic Exhibition in various parts of the country through the Office of Development Commissioner (Handicrafts). The exhibitions are planned in various major cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai. The exhibitions sponsored by Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) started from 14th February, 2020 to 23rd February 2020 at Bengaluru and Mumbai and will also be organized in Kolkata and Chennai in March 2020.

EVENTS AND INITIATIVES

ISAPTI IRADA It is a collaborative branding campaign of Union minister for steeland Petroleum and natural gas. This campaign aims at promoting appropriate usage of steel in bringing strength to the society.

THE WORLD FUTURE ENERGY SUMMIT

The theme for this year's summit is "Rethinking Global Consumption, Production, and Investment." World Future Energy Summit is the Middle East’s largest future energy and sustainability event. • Held annually at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, the 2020 edition includes exhibition and forum programmes across five main pillars: energy, solar, water, waste and smart cities, hosting an unrivalled gathering of top-level government and business leaders. • The event is starting to set an example for best practice, supporting the circular economy through recycling, and acting to remove single-use plastics from the event. Also held alongside the World Future Energy Summit are the Climate Innovations Exchange, ‘CLIX’ for short and the Future Sustainability Summit. • The event will showcase 42 of the world’s most disruptive innovations, selected from 1,402 global submissions from 128 countries, related to the future of energy, food, agriculture and sustainability in space.

ADOPT HERITAGE APNIDHAROAR APNI PEHACHAN

The project is a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture and Archaeological Survey of India, • State/ UTs Government for developing tourist amenities at heritage/tourist sites and making them tourist friendly, in a planned and phased manner. • Ministry of Tourism has signed 27 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU’s) till date under the Adopt a Heritage project.

WORLD SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT SUMMIT • The World Sustainable Development Summit is the Energy and Resources Institute's annual event. • In 2020 it was held in New Delhi. The theme of the 2020 edition of the Summit is 'Towards 2030 Goals: Making the Decade Count'.

COUNTRY’S FIRST WOMEN-ONLY MEDICAL COLLEGE

Why in news? The Medical Council of India has granted Symbiosis International University (SIU) permission to establish the country’s first women- only medical college from the academic year 2020-21. • Inspired by the biographic movie about India’s first woman doctor, Anandibai Joshi, the idea of establishing a medical college with the objective of women empowerment and contributing to the requirement of more women doctors exclusively for women, was born. • The Symbiosis University Hospital & Research Centre (SUHRC), with a strength of 900 beds, is the attached hospital. • The SUHRC provides clinical services, which are protocol driven and evidence based. All theatres are ‘modular’ with two-way data transfer facilities. The hospital caters to the population in a radius between 25-50 km from SUHRC. It also provides healthcare services to the large community of students and

faculty currently residing at the University campus (around 4,000).

About Anandibai Joshi: • Anandibai Gopalrao Joshi was the first woman from the erstwhile Bombay presidency of India to study and graduate with a two-year degree in western medicine in the United States. • Appreciations and honors she received: • Queen Victoria sent her a congratulatory message. The Philadelphia Post wrote, “Little Mrs Joshee who graduated with high honors in her class, received quite an ovation.” • Dr Joshi lived a mere 21 years but achieved so much in that brief span that a crater on Venus has been named in her honour. • The Institute for Research and Documentation in Social Sciences (IRDS), anon-governmental organization from Lucknow, has been awarding the Anandibai Joshi Award for Medicine in honour of her early contributions to the cause of advancing medical science in India.

WORLD GOLD COUNCIL

The World Gold Council is the market development organisation for the gold industry. It works across all parts of the industry, from gold mining to investment, and their aim is to stimulate and sustain demand for gold. • The World Gold Council is an association whose members comprise the world’s leading gold mining companies. It helps to support its members to mine in a responsible way and developed the Conflict Free Gold Standard. • Headquartered in London, United Kingdom, they have offices in India, China, Singapore and the United States.

VANDE BHARAT MISSION News: 8503 Indians return from abroad in 43 flights under Vande Bharat Mission since 7th May 2020.

• Government of India started Vande Bharat Mission - one of the largest initiatives to repatriate nationals back to India, on 7th May 2020. Under this mission, Ministry of Civil Aviation is coordinating with Ministry of External Affairs and state Governments for bringing Indians back to their homeland. • 8503 Indians have been flown back to India in 43 inbound flights operated by Air • India and Air India Express under Vande Bharat Mission.

FIR AAPKE DWAR YOJANA

Why in news? Madhya Pradesh Government has launched “FIR Aapke Dwar Yojana”. The scheme has been launched in 23 police stations as a pilot project. This includes both rural and urban areas. • Under the scheme, a person need not go to the police station to dodge a complaint. • The scheme has deployed the head constables to register the complaints from the people. The scheme will also enable on spot FIR registrations. When the complaints are serious, they will be forwarded to senior officers. • Along with the scheme, the Home Minister of the State also launched a helpline, “Dial 112”. This will provide in instant ambulance services, fire fighting services and also will enable to contact the police within a short period of time.

SWASTHVAYU

Why in news? The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) NAL (National Aerospace Laboratories), Bengaluru has developed a ventilator called “Swasthvayu”. • The ventilator has been designed in a record time of 36 days. The ventilator is made of built-in biocompatible coupler and a high efficiency filter. These features make the ventilator help reduce the fear against COVID-19.

• The ventilator includes provisions to connect oxygen concentrator externally. It has Mutual Recognition Arrangement with International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation and Asia Pacific Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation.

EVENTBOT

The Computer Emergency Response of Team (CERT) of India has issued warning against a new malware called “EventBot”. • The malware according to CERT steals personal financial information from Android phone users. • It cheats victims secretly attacking computer or phone operating system. Currently, the malware is capable of targeting more than 200 different financial applications. The malware has already looted crypto currency wallets, bank accounts in Europe and US. It targets money-transfer services, financial applications.

NADA APP News: Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju launches NADA app to help athletes stay updated on banned substances. • Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju unveiled National Anti-Doping Agency ’ s first mobile app to provide information about prohibited substances and their inadvertent use, calling the initiative an important step towards dope-free sports. • The app aims to create a bridge between athletes and the NADA by providing easily accessible information on various aspects of sport, and most importantly about prohibited substances and their inadvertent use which may affect the career of athletes. • The app also has exhaustive information about whether a specific commonly-prescribed medicine contains any substance that is prohibited by NADA, therefore helping athletes and coaches to decide which medicines athletes can consume in case they are unwell.

About National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) • The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) is the national organisation responsible for promoting, coordinating, and monitoring the doping control program in sports in all its forms in India. • It works under the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India. • National Anti Doping Agency (NADA) was set up as registered society under the Societies Registration Act of 1860 on November 24, 2005 with a mandate for Dope free sports in India. • The primary objectives are to implement anti-doping rules as per WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) code, regulate dope control programme, to promote education and research and creating awareness about doping and its ill effects.

NEW GEOPARKS IN ASIA , EUROPE , AND Latin AMERICA  UNESCO’s executive board has approved the designation of 15 new UNESCO Global Geoparks, which brings the number of sites participating in the Global Geoparks Network to 162 in 44 countries. The executive board also approved the extension of the Kula-Salihli UNESCO Global Geopark in Turkey.  UNESCO Global Geoparks were designated for the first time in Nicaragua, the Russian Federation and Serbia.  The newly designated Geoparks are: 1. Cliffs of Fundy UNESCO Global Geopark (Canada) 2. Discovery UNESCO Global Geopark (Canada) 3. Xiangxi UNESCO Global Geopark (China) 4. Zhangye UNESCO Global Geopark (China) 5. Lauhanvuori-Hämeenkangas UNESCO Global Geopark (Finland) 6. Toba Caldera UNESCO Global Geopark (Indonesia) 7. Rio Coco UNESCO Global Geopark (Nicaragua) 8. Estrela UNESCO Global Geopark (Portugal) 9. Hantangang River UNESCO Global Geopark (Republic of Korea) 10. Yangan-Tau UNESCO Global Geopark (Russian Federation) 11. Djerdap UNESCO Global Geopark (Serbia)

12. Granada UNESCO Global Geopark (Spain) 13. Maestrazgo UNESCO Global Geopark (Spain) 14. The Black Country UNESCO Global Geopark (United Kingdom) 15. DakNong UNESCO Global Geopark (Viet Nam) 16. Kula-Salihli UNESCO Global Geopark (Turkey) (Extended)

About UNESCO Global Geoparks  The 195 Member States of UNESCO ratified the creation of a new label, the UNESCO Global Geoparks, on 17 November 2015.  This expressed governmental recognition of the importance of managing outstanding geological sites and landscapes in a holistic manner.  UNESCO Global Geopark is not a legislative designation– though the defining geological heritage sites within a UNESCO Global Geopark must be protected under indigenous, local, regional or national legislation as appropriate.  UNESCO Global Geopark status does not imply restrictions on any economic activity inside the site where that activity complies with indigenous, local, regional and/or national legislatio.  Recognition Period: A UNESCO Global Geopark is given this designation for a period of four years after which the functioning of the site re-examined during a revalidation process.  This new designation formalized UNESCO's relationship with the Global Geoparks Network (GNN), which received ad hoc support from UNESCO since 2001.  The GGN membership is formed by geoparks—local areas focused on the protection of geological features and the celebration of that and the wider heritage.  As of July 2020, there were 161 UNESCO Global Geoparks in 44 countries.  Notably there are not yet (2020) any global Geoparks in the United States or South Asia and most of Africa (except Morocco, Tanzania and Canarias).  China is the country with the largest number of global geoparks

Difference between UNESCO Global Geoparks, Biosphere Reserves and World Heritage Sites:  Biosphere Reserves focus on the harmonized management of biological and cultural diversity.  World Heritage Sites promote the conservation of natural and cultural sites of outstanding universal value.  UNESCO Global Geo parks give international recognition for sites that promote the importance and significance of protecting the Earth ’ s geo diversity through actively engaging with the local communities.  A World Heritage Site or Biosphere Reserve can apply for the UNESCO Global Geo park status. However, a clear evidence has to be provided on how UNESCO Global Geo park status will add value by being both independently branded and in synergy with the other designations.

Global Geoparks Network (GGN):  The Global Geoparks Network (GGN), of which membership is obligatory for UNESCO Global Geoparks, is a legally constituted not-for-profit organisation  The GGN was founded in 2004 and is a dynamic network where members exchange ideas of best practise to raise the quality standards of a UNESCO Global Geopark.  While the GGN as a whole comes together every two years, it functions through the operation of regional networks, such as the European Geoparks Network that meets twice a year to develop and promote joint activities.It is managed under the UNESCO’s Ecological and Earth Sciences Division.

UNESCO Global Geoparks in India:  Till now no sites in India are recognised as UNESCO global geoparks.  In 2018 Geological Survey of India had chosen heritage locations in Maharashtra and Karnataka for UNESCO Global Geopark Network status. The Geopark tag is akin to that of a

‘World Heritage Site’ for historical monuments that can bring India’s famed geological features to the global stage.  The sites chosen are- Lonar Lake in Maharashtra and St. Mary’s Island and Malpe beach in coastal Karnataka are the GSI’s candidates for UNESCO Global Geopark Network status.

FIRST MEGA FOOD PARK, MIZORAM News: Recently, the government has operationalized the first Mega Food Park (MFP) of Mizoram i.e. Zoram Mega Food Park.

The Zoram Mega Food Park(MFP) will provide direct and indirect employment to 5,000 persons and benefit about 25,000 farmers in the CPC (Core Processing Centre) and PPC (primary processing Centre) catchment areas. Mega Food Park Scheme: • Launched in: 2008-09 under the purview of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries. • Aim: To provide a mechanism to link agricultural production to the market by bringing together farmers, processors and retailers so as to ensure maximizingvalue addition, minimizing wastage, increasing farmers income and creating employment opportunities particularly in the rural sector.

Components: • The Scheme is based on the “Cluster” approach and envisages creation of state of art support infrastructure in a well-defined agri/horticultural zone for setting up of modern food processing units in the industrial plots provided in the park with a well- established supply chain. • A Mega food Park typically consists of supply chain infrastructure including collection centers (cc), primary processing centers (ppc) central processing centers (cpc), cold chain and around 25-30 fully developed plots for entrepreneurs to set up food processing units.

Financial Assistance:

• The central government provides financial assistance upto Rs. 50 Crore per Mega Food Park (MFP) project. • The MFP project is implemented by a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) which is a Body Corporate registered under the Companies Act, 2013.

Status: • Presently, 18 Mega Food Park Projects are under implementation in various states and 19 Mega Food Parks have already become functional in the States. 6 of them are in the North eastern region. 2 MFPs in North eastern Region are operational at Assam and Mizoram. • It is in line with the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar’ vision of the Government of India.

DARE TO DREAM 2.0 News: DRDO launches ‘Dare to Dream 2.0’ contest for innovators and startups on 5th death anniversary of former president Dr A P J Abdul Kalam. • Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has launched its innovation contest‘Dare to Dream 2.0’on the 5th death anniversary of former President and noted scientist Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. • Dr Kalam, also known as missile man, had the vision of self- reliance. The scheme is being launched for emerging technologies to promote the individuals & startups for innovation in defence and aerospace technologies in the country after the call of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ given by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. • The ‘Dare to Dream 2.0’ is an open challenge to promote the innovators and startups of the country. • Award money, up to Rs 10 lakh for startup and Rs five lakh to individual category,will be given to the winners.

AYODHYA

For being the birthplace of Lord Rama, Ayodhya is one of the holiest cities of India.  According to Buddhist, Jain, Sanskrit, Greek, and Chinese sources, the older name for the City of Ayodhya is “Saketa” which corresponds to its magnificent buildings.  Ayodhya has been the Capital City to one of the ancient Indian kingdoms called “Kingdom of Kosala.”  The cities of Yogyakarta in Indonesia and Ayutthaya in Thailand, are named after Ayodhya.  A Jain canonical text Jambudvipa-Pannati describes Ayodhya as a city called Viniya (or Vinita) and mentions it as the birtplace of Rishabha; the first Tirthankara (ford-maker) in Jainism.  According to some historians, it was a Gupta ruler (probably Skandagupta) who moved his capital to Saketa, and renamed it to Ayodhya only around the 4th century.  Ayodhya is considered to be the birthplace of Raja Harishchandra (King Harishchandra); who is regarded as the icon of “truth” in India; as he gave away his kingdom, sold his family, and became a slave- just to fulfil promise he had made to a sage, and that too, in his dreams.  It is the Gopratara Tirtha (now called Guptar Ghat), where Rama and his followers are said to have ascended to heaven by entering the waters of Sarayu.  With the promotion of Vaishnavism (due to which the cult of Rama developed within Vaishnavism) by the Gahadavala Dynasty in the 11th century, Ayodhya emerged as an important pilgrimage center in India.  According to historians, Babri Mosque (or Babri Masjid) was built by the Mughal Emperor Babur in the 16th century and occupied 1,482.5 square yards in Ayodhya.  Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid Dispute : The dispute is one of the most lengthy legal disputes in India over a plot of land in Ayodhya where the Babri Masjid, a 16th century mosque, was toppled by a faction of right-wing Hindu community, termed as Kar Sevaks, in 1992.

 In the 1850s, Babri Mosque was attacked by a group of Hindus, claiming that the mosque was built over the birthplace of Lord Rama. Since then, the place has been a bone of contention between the Hindus and the Muslims in India.  Since the demolition of the Babri Masjid on 6 December 1992, the day has been celebrated as “Black Day” by several Muslim communities and six Left Parties- the CPI(M), CPI, RSP, AIFB, CPI(ML) and the SUCI( C) in India  Besides Hindus and Muslims, the Buddhist and Jain representatives also claimed that their temples existed at the disputed site.  South Korea shares a genetic connection with Ayodhya; as the queen of Korea’s biggest dynasty princess Heo Hwang-ok was the daughter of Ayodhya who travelled by sea route and married King Kim Suro of Korea’s Kara dynasty.  A Fort-Turned-Temple : Hanuman Garhi Fort, a massive four- sided fort with a temple of Lord Hanuman inside it, is the most popular shrine in Ayodhya.  Celebrated on the ninth day of Shukla Paksha (or bright phase of the lunar fortnight) in the month of Chaitra (mid-march) of the Hindu or Lunar calendar, Ram Navami is the most popular festival in Ayodhya, a festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Rama.  Ayodhya is known for its iconic river “Saryu” that flows through its center. The river is considered as one of the holiest rivers in India, and is believed to rejuvenate the people and wash away their impurities.

SUN TEMPLE

About Sun temple  A sun temple (or solar temple) is a building used for religious or spiritual activities, such as prayer and sacrifice, dedicated to the sun or a solar deity.  Such temples were built by a number different cultures and are distributed across the world including in India, China, Egypt, Japan and Peru.

 Some of the temples are in ruins, undergoing excavation, preservation or restoration and a few are listed as World Heritage Sites individually or as part of a larger site, such as Konark.  Some of the Rajput clans, namely “Suryavanshi”, worship Sun and claim themselves to be the descendants of the deity.  Some of the major temples in India are:

1. Modhera Sun Temple, Gujarat:  The Sun Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the solar deity Surya located at Modhera village of Mehsana district, Gujarat, India.  It is situated on the bank of the river Pushpavati.  It was built after 1026-27 CE during the reign of Bhima I of the Chaulukya dynasty.  No worship is offered now and is protected monument maintained by Archaeological Survey of India.  The temple complex has three components: Gudhamandapa, the shrine hall; Sabhamandapa, the assembly hall and Kunda, the reservoir.  The halls have intricately carved exterior and pillars. The reservoir has steps to reach bottom and numerous small shrines.

2. Konark Sun temple, Odisha:  It is a 13th-century CE sun temple at Konark about 35 kilometres northeast from Puri on the coastline of Odisha, India.

 The temple is attributed to king Narasingha deva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty about 1250 CE.  Also called the Surya Devalaya, it is a classic illustration of the Odisha style of Architecture or Kalinga Architecture . The cause of the destruction of the Konark temple is unclear and remains a source of controversy.Theories range from natural damage to deliberate destruction of the temple in the course of being sacked several times by Muslim armies between the 15th and 17th centuries.  This temple was called the “Black Pagoda” in European sailor accounts as early as 1676 because its great tower appeared black. Similarly, the Jagannath Temple in Puri was called the “White Pagoda”. Both temples served as important landmarks for sailors in the Bay of Bengal.  Declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1984, it remains a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, who gather here every year for the Chandrabhaga Mela around the month of February.

3. Brahmanya Dev Temple, Unao (Madhya Pradesh):  The Balaji, a famous and rare sun temple with its own unique architecture, is situated in a small town of Unao in Datia district of Madhya Pradesh.  The Balaji temple was built in the pre-historic time by the king of Datia. The Sun Temple at Unao in Madhya Pradesh is unique in its architecture.  The Sun God stands on a brick platform covered with black plates. Twenty-one triangles, representing the 21 phases of the Sun are engraved in the shrine. Local belief is that worshippers find relief from skin ailments at this temple.  The deity Balaji is very much famous for curing skin ailments. People from far distant places come and worship the deity. Below the temple, a river Pahooj is also flowing. There are some wells in the river, at the time of summer, people used to have bathe with the water in the wells. Sulphur content is found in the water of Pahooj river, which is helpful in treating skin diseases.

4. Suryanaar Kovil, Kumbakonam (Tamil Nadu):  Suryanar Kovil (also called Suryanar Temple) is a Hindu temple dedicated to the deity Hindu Sun-God, located in Suryanar Kovil, a village near the South Indian town of Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, India.  The presiding deity is Suriyanar, the Sun and his consorts Ushadevi and Pratyusha Devi.  The temple also has separate shrines for the other eight planetary deities. The temple is considered one of the nine Navagraha temples in Tamil Nadu.  The temple is one of the few historic temples dedicated to Sun god and is also the only temple in Tamil Nadu which has shrines for all the planetary deities.  The present masonry structure was built during the reign of Kulottunga Choladeva (AD 1060-1118) in the 11th century with later additions from the Vijayanagar period.  Constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture, the temple has a five-tiered rajagopuram, the gateway tower and a granite wall enclosing all the shrines of the temple.  It is believed that the planetary deities were cursed by Brahma to dwell in Vellurukku Vanam, the white wild flower jungle and were blessed by Shiva to make it their abode to devotees.

5. Suryanarayana Swamy temple, Arasavalli (Andhra Pradesh):  Arasavalli Sun Temple is a 7th- century AD Sun Temple at

Arasavalli in Andhra Pradesh,

India.  It is believed that the temple was built by king Devendra Varma, ruler of the Kalinga Dynasty. The temple is still being visited today and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the town.  This temple is considered as one of the oldest sun temples in India. The walls in the temple are inscribed saying the creator of the temple was the ruler Devendra Varma, stating it was built in the time period known to them as the 7th century. The walls also state the temple was fixed and changed a bit to help with some of the sun temple’s major flaws during their 18th and 19th century.  In the earlier parts of the day the temple is built to direct the sun’s light to fall on the feet of the lord Surya showing his importance and power.

6. Dakshinaarka Temple, Gaya (Bihar):  It is said to be built by King Prataparuda of Warangal in 13th century AD.  The deity is made in granite and the idol wears Persian attire like waist girdle, boots and a jacket. It has a Surya Kund (water reservoir) nearby.

7. Navalakha Temple, Ghumli (Gujarat):  Navlakha Temple at Ghumli was built by Jethwa rulers in 11th century dedicated to Sun god, Surya and is oldest sun temple of Gujarat.  It has the largest base (Uagati) of the temples in Gujarat, measuring 45.72 x 30.48 m. Facing East, it had a beautiful entrance arch or Kirti Toran, that is now lost.  The sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha), covered pradakshina path, large gathering hall and its three shringar chokis are eye

catching.  The Navlakha Temple built at a cost of Nine Lacs hence the name Navlakha. It rivals the Somnath Temple and Modhera Sun Temple in its architect and interiors.  The temple is built in Solanki style of architecture and Maru-Gurjara style of architecture have the three entwining tusks of elephants as its trademark and is considered to be high noon of Solanki style of architect.

8. Martand Sun temple, Kashmir:  The Martand Sun Temple is a Kashmiri Hindu temple dedicated to Surya (the chief solar deity in Hinduism) and built during the 8th century CE.  Martand is another Sanskrit name for the Hindu Sun-god. Now in ruins, the temple is located five miles from Anantnag in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir.  It was destroyed during the sultanate of Sikandar Butshikan. The Martand Sun Temple was built by the third ruler of the Karkota Dynasty, Lalitaditya Muktapida, in the 8th century CE. It is said to have been built during 725-756 CE.  The foundation of the temple is said to have been around since 370-500 CE, with some attributing the construction of the temple to have begun with Ranaditya. The temple was completely destroyed on the orders of Muslim ruler Sikandar Butshikan in the early 15th century, with demolition lasting a year.

PUPPET FORMS IN INDIA  A doll or a figure controlled by a person so that it appears to be moving on its own is called a puppet.

 A puppet is one of the most remarkable and ingenious inventions of the man. It has been said that a puppet has to be more than his live counterpart for it is definitely the suggestive element that is more captivating and enduring in a puppet.  Ancient Hindu philosophers have paid the greatest tribute to puppeteers. They have likened God Almighty to a puppeteer and the entire universe to a puppet stage. Srimad Bhagavata, the great epic depicting the story of Lord Krishna in his childhood say that with three strings-Satta, Raja and Tama, the God manipulates each object in the universe as a marionette.  In Sanskrit terminology Puttalika and Puttika means ‘little sons’. The root of Puppet is derived from the latin word ‘Pupa’ meaning a doll. India is said to be the home of puppets, but it is yet to awaken to its unlimited possibilities.  The earliest reference to the art of puppetry is found in Tamil classic ‘Silappadikaaram’ written around the 1st or 2nd century B.C.  Natyashastra, the masterly treatise on dramaturgy written sometime during 2nd century BC to 2nd century AD., does not refer to the art of puppetry but the producer-cum-director of the human theatre has been termed as ‘Sutradhar’ meaning the holder of strings. The word might have found its place in theatre-terminology long before Natyashastra was written but it must come from marionette theatre. Puppetry, therefore, must have originated in India more than 500 years before Christ.  Almost all types of puppets are found in India. Puppetry throughout the ages has held an important place in traditional entertainment. Like traditional theatre, themes for puppet theatre are mostly based on epics and legends. Puppets from different parts of the country have their own identity. Regional styles of painting and sculpture are reflected in them.  Puppetry has been successfully used to motivate emotionally and physically handicapped students to develop their mental and physical faculties. Awareness programmes about the conservation of the natural and cultural environment have also proved to be useful. These programmes aim at sensitising the students to the beauty in word, sound, form, colour and movement. The aesthetic satisfaction derived from making of

puppets and communicating through them helps in the all round development of the personality of the child.  Stories adapted from puranic literature, local myths and legends usually form the content of traditional puppet theatre in India which, in turn, imbibes elements of all creative expressions like painting, sculpture, music, dance, drama, etc. The presentation of puppet programmes involves the creative efforts of many people working together.

Different types of puppets used in India There are 4 major different types of puppets used in India and different states used to call it by different names.

1.Glove Puppets  PavaKoothu – Kerala

2. Rod Puppets  Putul Nach – West Bengal  Kathi Kandhe – Orissa  Yampuri – Bihar

3.Shadow Puppets  Tholu Bommalata – Andhra Pradesh  Togalu Gombeyata – Karnataka  Tolpavakoothu – Kerala  Chamadyache Bahulya – Maharashtra  Ravanachhaya – Orissa  Thol Bommalattam – Tamil Nadu

4. String Puppets  Putal Nach – Assam  Gombeyatta – Karnataka  Kalasutri Bahulya – Maharashtra  Gopalila Kundhei – Orissa  Kathputli – Rajasthan  Bommalattam – Tamil Nadu

Why is Puppetry Art Dying? There are various reasons for it. Some of them are

 Lack of patronage in the modern age.  Competition from Electronic media which is a preferred mode of entertainment. People find it more appealing to watch mythological stories of Ramayan and Mahabharat on electronic media rather than in Puppetry.  Puppetry Art is usually confined to only devotional and mythological stories.  With changing times, Puppetry does not take up modern social issues.  Puppetry lacks modernization in terms of script, lighting, sound and other stage effects.

IMPORTANT PERSONS IN NEWS

RAJA RAVI VARMA  The book, "The World of Raja Ravi Varma: Princes & Patrons" by Manu S Pillai had launched on the artist’s 172nd birth anniversary.  Raja Ravi Varma (29 April 1848 – 2 October 1906) was a celebrated Indian painter and artist.  Raja Ravi Varma was closely related to the royal family of Travancore of present-day Kerala state in India.  Varma worked on both portrait and landscape paintings, and is considered among the first Indian artists to use oil paints.  In 1904, the British colonial government awarded Varma with the Kaiser-i-Hind Gold Medal.  In 2013, a crater on the planet Mercury was named in his honor .

PANDIT RAVI SHANKAR  One of sitar’s greatest exponents, who took Indian classical music to the world, Robindro Shankar Chowdhury would have turned 100 on April 7.  Ravi Shankar (7 April 1920 – 11 December 2012), whose name is often preceded by the title Pandit (Master) and "Sitar

maestro", was an Indian musician and a composer of Hindustani classical music  He was the best-known proponent of the sitar in the second half of the 20th century and influenced many other musicians throughout the world.  Shankar was awarded India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, in 1999.

GURU ARJAN DEV  Death anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev.  Guru Arjan ( 15 April 1563 – 30 May 1606) fifth of the ten total Sikh Gurus.  He compiled the first official edition of the Sikh scripture called the Adi Granth, which later expanded into the Guru Granth Sahib.  He was the first Guru to be born in the Sikh family, he completed the construction of Darbar Sahib in Amritsar.  In the year 1606, he was captured by Mughal Emperor Jahangir .  After arresting the guru, Jahangir asked him to convert to Islam but he refused. He even fined the guru with Rs 2 lakh plus elimination of all text from the Adi Granth that the Mughal emperor found 'offensive' to Hindu or Muslims. But again he refused. So, Jahangir condemned him to be tortured to death

VD SAVARKAR  137th birth anniversary of VD Savarkar.  Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (28 May 1883 – 26 February 1966), Born in Bhagur, Bombay Presidency, British India (present-day Maharashtra, India .  He and his brother founded a secret society called Abhinav Bharat Society.  When he went to the United Kingdom for his law studies, he involved himself with organizations such as India House and the Free India Society.

 One of the books he published called The Indian War of Independence about the Indian rebellion of 1857 was banned by the British authorities.  Serving as the president of the Hindu Mahasabha political party, he opposed the Quit India movement in 1942. He was a critic of the Indian National Congress and its acceptance of India's partition.  The airport at Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar's capital was renamed Veer Savarkar International Airport in 2002.

PURANDARA DASA  Purandara Dasa’s birthplace: Archaeology Dept. to start research in village in Karnataka's Shivamogga district.  Purandara Dasa(c. 1484 – c. 1565) was a Haridasa, a renowned composer of Carnatic music, a great devotee of Lord Krishna, a Vaishnava poet, a saint and a social reformer  Purandara Dasa is noted for composing Dasa Sahithya, as a Bhakti movement vocalist, and a music scholar  He was a disciple of the Dvaita philosopher-saint Vyasatirtha, and a contemporary of yet another Haridasa, Kanakadasa  He is widely referred to as the Pitamaha (lit. "father" or "grandfather") of Carnatic music.

SUBIMAL GOSWAMI  1962 Asian Games gold medal winning captain Goswami passes away on April 30.  Subimal Goswami (15 January 1938 – 30 April 2020) was an Indian professional footballer ,who captained both the Mohun Bagan club and the Indian national team.  He was an Olympian, represented India national team at the 1960 Summer Olympics  He also led the team to achieve the gold medal at the 1962 Asian Games and earn the runners-up position at the 1964 Asia Cup in Israel.

RABINDRANATH TAGORE  Rabindranath Tagore was born on May 7, 1861. As a polymath, Tagore was became the first Asian Nobel laureate and the first non-European to win the prize for literature in 1913.  He reshaped Bengali literature and music, as well as Indian art with Contextual Modernism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.  Tagore, who holds the unique distinction of having composed the national anthems of two nations — India and Bangladesh — is fondly remembered in many countries of the globe.  1918, he founded the Vishwabharati University at Santiniketan .  Tagore renounced his knighthood in response to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919.

SATYAJIT RAY  Ministry of Culture’s Development of Museums and Cultural Spaces (DMCS) digitally launched the short film ‘A Ray of Genius’ to mark the beginning of the centenary celebrations of Satyajit Ray.  Satyajit Ray was an Indian filmmaker, screenwriter, music composer, graphic artist, lyricist and author, widely regarded as one of the greatest filmmakers of all time.  Ray received numerous awards and honours, including India's highest award in cinema, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1984) and India's highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna (1992).

PROFESSOR BB LAL  On the occasion of centenary year of great archaeologist Prof B. B. Lal, Union Culture Minister releases e-book “Prof. B. B. Lal -India Rediscovered”.  Prof Lal was born on 02nd may 1921 in village Baidora, District Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh.  Prof. B. B. Lal was conferred upon Padma Bhushan in the year of 2000.  He was the Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) from 1968 to 1972 .

PROFESSOR A VAIDYANATHAN  India lost a staunch advocate of data quality and an empirical analysis guru with the passing of Professor A Vaidyanathan on June 10th.  Vaidyanathan, former Member, Planning Commission and former Professor at the Madras Institute of Development Studies and Centre for Development Studies, Trivandrum.  Mr. Vaidyanathan had chaired the Government of India Task Force on Revival of Rural Cooperative Credit Institutions in 2004 and was a member of the K.N. Raj Committee on Taxation of Agricultural Income (1969-70).  He was a member of the Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India and was one of the survivors of the terrorist attack on Mumbai’s Taj Mahal Hotel in November 2008.  Vaidyanathan was closely associated with state level planning in Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

C S SESHADRI  C.S. Seshadri, one of the leaders of Indian mathematics in the post-Independence era, passed away late on July 17 in Chennai.  C.S. Seshadri was an eminent Indian mathematician.  He was the founder and Director-Emeritus of the Chennai Mathematical Institute(CMI) and is known for his work in algebraic geometry.  CMI is a unique institution in India that attempts to integrate undergraduate education with research.  He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2009.

SHAKUNTALA DEVI  Guinness World Records recently honoured Indian math genius, Shakuntala Devi, with the long-overdue record title for 'fastest human computation', four decades after she achieved the feat.  Shakuntala Devi was an Indian writer and mental calculator, popularly known as the "Human Computer”.  She wrote the book The World Of Homosexuals, which is considered the first study of homosexuality in India.

PANDIT JASRAJ  Indian classical vocalist Pandit Jasraj passed away on 17 August .  He was a recipient of various prestigious awards and honours including Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan.  In September last year, a minor planet, between Mars and Jupiter, was named after him as Panditjasraj .

PINGALI VENKAYYA  Pingali Venkayya (2 August 1876 – 4 July 1963) was an Indian freedom fighter and the designer of the flag on which the Indian national flag was based .  He was born at Bhatlapenumarru, near Machilipatnam, in what is now the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh  Venkayya's version of flag was first designed for the Indian National Congress and subsequently modified in 1947 .  In 2012, the government of Andhra Pradesh recommended his name for the Bharat Ratna.

CHAOLUNG SUKAPHA  Sukapha was a 13th-century ruler who founded the Ahom kingdom that ruled Assam for six centuries. Contemporary scholars trace his roots to Burma .  Sukapha’s significance — especially in today’s Assam — lies in his successful efforts towards assimilation of different communities and tribes.  He is widely referred to as the architect of “Bor Asom” or “greater Assam”.  To commemorate Sukapha and his rule, Assam celebrates “Asom Divas” on December 2 every year.

TANHAJI  Tanaji Malusare was a military assistant of Maratha King Chhatrapati Shivaji.

 He came from a Hindu Koli (ethnic Indian group) family. A local poet Tulsidas, wrote about Tanaji's heroics and sacrifice of life in the Battle of Sinhagad .  The battle was fought between Tanaji Malusare, a Koli Commander of Maratha Empire under Shivaji and Udaybhan Singh Rathore,a Rajput fortkeeper under Jai Singh I.  Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior is a 2020 Indian Hindi-language biographical period action film was based on Tanhaji.

IMPORTANT AWARDS

PULITZER PRIZE  Pulitzer Prize postponed due to COVID-19 .  The Pulitzer Prize is an award for achievements in newspaper, magazine and online journalism, literature, and musical composition in the United States.  It was established in 1917 by provisions in the will of American (Hungarian-born) Joseph Pulitzer who had made his fortune as a newspaper publisher, and is administered by Columbia University in New York City

MAHALANOBIS AWARD  Former Reserve Bank of India Governor C. Rangarajan has been conferred the P.C. Mahalanobis Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution to official statistics.  The Mahalanobis International Award is sponsored by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation of the Government of India.  The award recognizes an individual for lifetime achievements in statistics in developing country or region.

AWARD FOR 'KANNAN CS WARRIER ' FOR RESEARCH ON SACRED GROVES  Warrier was recently conferred the National Award of excellence for outstanding research in forestry, including conservation of endangered sacred groves in the Alappuzha district of Kerala.  The award is constituted by the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education, the apex body for forestry research in India.  In India, there are over a lakh sacred groves across different states. They go by different names like  koyil kaadu in Tamilnadu,  orans in Rajasthan,  devara kaadu in Karnataka, and  sernas in Madhya Pradesh

LALIT KALA AKADEMI AWARDS  President of India confererred National Lalit Kala Akademi Awards to 15 artists in New Delhi.  Lalit Kala Akademi, National Academy of Art, New Delhi was set up by the Government of India as an autonomous body, on 5th August, 1954.  The Akademi was given statutory authority in 1957, under the Societies Registration Act 1860.

SUBHASH CHANDRA BOSE AAPDA PRABANDHAN PURASKAR  All Indian Citizens and organizations, who have excelled in areas of Disaster Management; like Prevention, Mitigation, Preparedness, Rescue, Response, Relief, Rehabilitation, Research/ Innovations or Early Warning are eligible for the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar.  The award is announced every year on January 23, birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.  The Disaster Mitigation and Management Centre in Uttarakhand (institution category) and former IPS officer

K.M. Singh(individual category) have been selected this year for the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar for their contribution in the field of disaster management .  Mr. Singh, a founder member of the National Disaster Management Authority in 2005, is known for his work during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.

IMPORTANT PLACES IN NEWS

BOUGAINVILLE  BOUGAINVILLE VOTES TO BECOME WORLD’S NEWEST COUNTRY  Bougainville officially the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, is an autonomous region of Papua New Guinea, chain of islands that lie 959 kilometres northwest of Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) capital, Port Moresby.  Bougainville Island is the largest of the Solomon Islands archipelago.  The interim capital is Buka, though it is expected that Arawa will become the permanent capital.

NANDYAL YERRAGUNTA  Nandyal-Yerragunta section in Guntakal division of Hyderabad became the first ‘Solar section’ where all the stations have been provided with solar panels at a stretch to tap renewable energy.

ZOJILA TUNNEL  The Zojila Tunnel will be situated at an altitude of 11,578 feet on Srinagar-Kargil-Leh National Highway (NH-1A).The 14.15 km long Zojila Tunnel is significant as it will reduce the 3.5-hour drive to a mere 15 minutes of travel.  The main objective of the project is to provide all weather connectivity to strategically important Leh region in J&K which at moment is limited to at best 6 months because of snow on the mountainous passes and threat of avalanches. Ladakh region remains cut off from rest of the country during winter months due to heavy snowfall.  The project will be implemented by Union Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) through the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) on Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode

ANAK KRAKATAU  Indonesia's Anak Krakatau volcano erupted recently.  Anak Krakatau, which means Child of Kratakau, is the offspring of the famous Krakatau volcano, whose monumental eruption in 1883 triggered a period of global cooling.  Krakatau volcano spewed a column of ash 500 metres into the sky in the longest eruption since the explosive collapse of the island caused a deadly tsunami in 2018.

PAYYANUR  Payyanur taluk, situated on the banks of the Perumba river in Kerala’s Kannur district, played a significant role in India’s struggle for independence and also has a historical engagement with Gandhian thought and action.

 During a visit to the Kerala town in 1934, the Mahatma planted a mango tree that still survives.  The Salt Satyagraha in 1930 was another landmark in Payyanur’s history. ‘Kerala Gandhi’ K. Kelappan led a procession of 33 satyagrahis from Kozhikode to Payyannur, the southern tip of the North Malabar.  Payyanur was also an epicentre of the anti-untouchability movement. Great leaders of the movement at Payyanur — A.K. Gopalan, K.A. Keraliyan and Vishnu Bharatiyan — ushered boys from the oppressed Pulaya community into the southern corridor of the Kandoth Sree Kurumba Bhagavathi Temple.

DOPORIJO BRIDGE  Daporijo bridge was recently inaugurated, which is built over Subansiri River.  Border Roads Organization constructs the bridge in record time on a key road connecting strategic areas in Arunachal Pradesh.  Project Arunak is the name of this project.  The Subansiri River is a tributary of the Brahmaputra River in the Indian states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.  The Subansiri is the largest tributary of the Brahmaputra.

KASOWAL BRIDGE  The Border Roads Organization has completed the construction of permanent bridge across Ravi river.  The Kasowal bridge will help Punjab farmers to transport their harvest comfortably.  The bridge was constructed by BRO under Project Chetak.  The Ravi river is a transboundary river. It is also known by the name Iravati.

NORD STREAM 2 PROJECT  Nord Stream is a system of offshore natural gas pipelines from Russia to Germany.

 It includes two lines running from Vyborg to Greifswald forming original Nord Stream (Nord Stream 1), and two lines running from Ust-Luga to Greifswald termed Nord Stream 2.  Nord Stream 2 passes through the waters of five Baltic Sea nations: Russia, Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Germany.

DURBAR MOVE  For the first time in 144 years, the J&K administration has decided to halt the annual shifting of the capital, called ‘Durbar move’, from Jammu to Srinagar in J&K due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.  Introduced by Dogra monarch Maharaja Gulab Singh in 1872 , the ‘Durbar move’ would see shifting of the Civil Secretariat in summers from Jammu to Srinagar and in winters from Srinagar to Jammu.  In January 1987, the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi had asked then Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah to stop the practice. However, the ‘Durbar move’ was continued to allow it to act as a bridge between two diverse cultures of the Kashmir Valley and the Jammu region.

GOLDEN TRIANGLE AND GOLDEN CRESCENT  Golden Triangle and Golden Crescent are the Asia’s two largest principal illicit opium producing areas .  The Golden Crescent is located in Southwest Asia and consists of three contiguous countries of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran from East to West.  Iran is not an opium producing country in this region but is more that of a trans-shipment country.  The Golden Triangle is an opium producing area of SE Asia comprising, parts of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand.  It is the area where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet at the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong rivers.

GAIRSAIN

Why in news? Gairsain in Chamoli district was declared as the summer capital of Uttarakhand. The governor has given assent to declaring Gairsain the summer capital of Uttarakhand.

It fulfills Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat’s announcement about Gairsain in the Vidhan Sabha and a major promise made by the party in its manifesto for the 2017 Assembly poll.

Why Uttarakhand decided to have a second capital in Gairsain?

• The issue is largely political. In its Vision Document, released before the 2017 Assembly elections, the BJP had promised to equip Gairsain with top-class infrastructure and consider declaring it as a summer capital with the “consensusof all”. • With Governor Baby Rani Maurya giving her assent for declaration of Bhararisen (Gairsain) in Chamoli district as the summer capital of Uttarakhand , a two-decade-long wait of the hill region came to an end. • It is expected that the declaration of a summer capital in the region will expedite development of the hilly areas. The development came three months after Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat announced in the Budget Session of the Assembly held in Gairsain that the town will become summer capital of the state.

MOUNT SINABUNG VOLCANO OF INDONESIA ERUPTS The Mount Sinabung of Indonesia has erupted again. The volcano was dormant for 400 years and erupted recently in the year 2010 and in 2014. • The volcano is the most active in the country. It is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire that has more than 120 active volcanos. • Mount Sinabung is located in the North Sumatra Island of Indonesia.

• Mount Sinabung is a Pleistocene-to-Holocene stratovolcano of andesite and dacite in the Karo plateau of Karo Regency, North Sumatra, Indonesia, 40 kilometres (25 mi) from the Lake Toba supervolcano.