Context:
First ever ‘Cultural Property Agreement’ signed by the India and United States of America.
Cultural Property Agreement:
- Signed on the sidelines of – 46th World Heritage Committee, New Delhi.
- Aim – To prevent and curb the illicit trafficking of antiquities from India to the USA.
- Restricts the importation into the United States of certain archaeological material and ethnological material of Indian origin.
- Helpful in quick seizure of Indian antiquities at US Customs and their repatriation back to India.
Efforts to prevent smuggling of antiquities:
- 1970 UNESCO Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property.
- The Kashi Culture Pathway, the Outcome Document of the G20 Culture Working Group endorsed an effective global coalition to bolster the fight against illicit trafficking.
- India’s Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, 1972 – Prevents export of antiquities outside India.
- If an antiquity is traced, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for coordination with the other country and recovery of antiquities.
Source: Hindustan Times
Previous Year Question
With reference to the cultural history of India, the term ‘Panchayatan’ refers to:
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2014 Prelims]
(a) an assembly of village elders
(b) a religious sect
(c) a style of temple construction
(d) an administrative functionary
Answer: (c)
