Context:

  • Recently Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the festival depicts the emotion of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat while extending greetings on the Pongal festival.

About Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat scheme:

  • The scheme was announced by Hon’ble Prime Minister on 31st October, 2015.
  • This was announced on the occasion of the 140th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
  • Through this innovative initiative, the knowledge of the different culture, traditions and practices of different States & UTs will lead to an enhanced understanding and bonding between the States which leads to strengthening the unity and integrity of India.
  • All States and UTs will be covered under the programme.
  • There will be pairing of States/UTs at national level and these pairings will be in effect for almost one year, or till the next round of pairings.
  • The State/UT level pairings would be utilized for state level activities only.
  • District level pairings would be independent of the State level pairings.
The broad objectives of the initiative are listed below :-
  • Celebrate the Unity in Diversity of our Nation and to also to maintain and strengthen the fabric of traditionally existing emotional bonds between the people of our Country;
  • To promote the spirit of national integration through a deep and structured engagement between all Indian States and Union Territories through a year-long planned engagement between various States;
  • To showcase the rich heritage and culture, customs and traditions of different States for enabling people to understand and appreciate the diversity that is India, thus fostering a sense of common identity;
  • To enable an environment which promotes learning between States by sharing best practices and experiences.