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Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

Republic Day Tableaux Selection Process and Recent Controversies

Note4Students

From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :

Prelims level: Republic Day Tableaux

Mains level: Not Much

Republic Day Tableaux

Introduction

  • The Defence Ministry’s proposal for a rollover plan for States and UTs to showcase their tableaux at the Republic Day parade comes amid ongoing controversies and complaints from various states.
  • The plan aims to ensure that every State and UT gets an opportunity to participate within a three-year cycle, addressing the issue of limited slots (approximately 15) available each year.

Selection Process for Republic Day Tableaux

  • Participants: State Governments/UT Administrations/Central Ministries/Departments are eligible to send tableaux.
  • Application Process: Interested parties submit a concept note and design blueprints to the Ministry of Defence (MoD) by a specified deadline.
  • Expert Committee Evaluation: The MoD appoints a committee of experts in art, culture, and related fields to evaluate the proposals in two stages:
    1. Stage 1: Initial assessment of proposals and design sketches, with possible rejections or suggestions for modifications.
    2. Stage 2: Evaluation of three-dimensional models, leading to final selection or further modifications.

Criteria for Selection

  • Factors Considered: Visual appeal, thematic relevance, detailing, accompanying music, use of local artists, and adherence to the year’s overarching theme.
  • 2024 Theme: “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) and “Bharat: Loktantra ki Matrika” (India: the Mother of Democracy).
  • Guidelines: The MoD specifies guidelines, including the use of young designers, electronic displays, robotics, 3D printing, augmented/virtual reality, and eco-friendly materials. Conformity to these guidelines is encouraged.

Controversies and Rejections

  • Opposition-Ruled States’ Concerns: States like Karnataka, Punjab, and West Bengal have expressed dissatisfaction over their tableaux being rejected.
  • Centre’s Stance: The Centre has maintained its decision without providing specific reasons for rejection.
  • Possible Reasons for Rejection: Misalignment with the broader theme, as suggested by MoD sources regarding Punjab and West Bengal’s proposals.
  • Political Allegations: A politician claimed that the Delhi government’s exclusion lacked justification, intending to showcase the state’s governance model.

Conclusion

  • Navigating Challenges: The new rollover plan and selection process aim to balance equitable state representation with adherence to thematic and aesthetic guidelines.
  • Addressing Discontent: While the plan seeks to mitigate annual complaints, it also raises questions about transparency and political considerations in the selection process.
  • Future Prospects: Ensuring a transparent, inclusive, and theme-compliant selection process is crucial for maintaining the integrity and celebratory spirit of the Republic Day parade.

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