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Subject: History

  • [pib] National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM)

    Why in the News?

    As part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM) introduced the Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar (MGMD) portal in June 2023, facilitating comprehensive documentation of the cultural heritage of 6.5 lakh villages across India.

    About National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM):

    Details Launched by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India and implemented by Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).
    Aims and Objectives
    • Document India’s cultural heritage, including art forms, artists, crafts, and performing arts.
    • Mapping of 6.5 lakh villages across India; Initial focus on Bihar.
    • IT-enabled platform to store and manage cultural data via a web portal and mobile app (Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar).
    Significant Features
    • Database creation for cultural elements like oral traditions, art, customs, festivals, food, and historical landmarks.
    • National Register of Artists and Art Practices for cultural preservation.
    • Raising awareness about cultural heritage’s role in economic development and national unity.
    Initiatives under the Mission
    • Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar (MGMD): Documents villages, focusing on culture, history, and traditions.
    • 7 Categories of Cultural Data: Arts & Crafts, Ecology, Scholastic Traditions, Epics, History, Architecture, and Unique Features.
    • Sanskriti Pratibha Khoj: Identification of traditional artists through cultural mapping.
    • National Cultural Work Place and Outreach: Involves newsletters, magazines, booklets, advertisements, media, and content designing.
  • Andhra Pradesh’s Etikoppaka Toys

    Andhra Pradesh’s Etikoppaka Toys

    Why in the News?

    On the occasion of India’s 76th Republic Day, Andhra Pradesh’s tableau showcasing the Etikoppaka Bommalu — a 400-year-old wooden toy-making tradition — captivated the audience at New Delhi’s Kartavya Path.

    About Etikoppaka Bommalu

    • The craft originates from Etikoppaka, a small village in Andhra Pradesh, renowned for its 400-year-old wooden toy-making tradition.
    • The name “Etikoppaka” is synonymous with eco-friendly wooden toys, which reflect a seamless blend of art and sustainability.
    • The toys are made from the wood of the Ankudu tree (Wrightia tinctoria), known for its lightweight and malleable properties, allowing intricate carvings.
    • Artisans use natural dyes derived from plant-based sources like seeds, leaves, and bark, ensuring non-toxic and child-safe finishes.
    • The lacquer-turning technique gives the toys a lustrous finish, sealing the natural colors while enhancing durability.

    Cultural and Historical Significance

    • The toys often depict mythological characters, animals, and musical instruments, connecting them to India’s rich cultural heritage.
    • Many designs reflect motifs from ancient civilizations such as Mohenjo Daro and Harappa.
    • The crafts include spinning tops, household decorations, musical instruments, and Raja-Rani figurines, showcasing a timeless aesthetic.
    • In 2017, Etikoppaka Bommalu received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, ensuring their authenticity and preserving their cultural significance.
    • These toys have gained international recognition, admired by collectors and eco-conscious enthusiasts.

    Other GI-Tagged Toys in India:

    Origin Description
    Channapatna Toys Karnataka Wooden toys known for vibrant colors and eco-friendly lacquer finish.
    Nirmal Toys Telangana Intricately carved wooden toys that reflect artistic craftsmanship.
    Indore Leather Toys Madhya Pradesh Lifelike animal figures made from leather, showcasing detailed craftsmanship.
    Kondapalli Bommallu Andhra Pradesh Traditional wooden dolls crafted from local wood, often painted in bright colors.
  • Rakhigarhi is giving us more clues on Saraswati River

    Why in the News?

    A massive water reservoir recently uncovered at Rakhigarhi reveals advanced Harappan water management practices linked to the Saraswati River.

    Do you know?

    The Centre of Excellence for Research on the Saraswati River (CERSR) at Kurukshetra University conducted a comprehensive study establishing that the Saraswati River, often termed “mythical,” flowed in Haryana until 1402 AD.

     

    About Rakhigarhi

    • Rakhigarhi, located in Hisar, Haryana is the largest site of the Indus-Saraswati Civilisation, dating back to the mature Harappan period (2600–1900 BCE).
    • It is situated in the plains of the Saraswati River, about 27 km from the seasonal Ghaggar River.
    • First excavated in 1969 by archaeologist Suraj Bhan, it consists of seven mounds and has been a key site for understanding Harappan urban planning and water management.
    • Recent findings have pushed the timeline of the civilisation to as early as 6000 BCE.
    • In 2020, Rakhigarhi was designated as an Iconic Site under the Union Budget for development and preservation.
    • NCERT states that DNA studies from Rakhigarhi suggest the genetic roots of the Harappans trace back to 10,000 BCE.

    Significant Features

    • Urban Planning: Evidence of well-planned streets, brick houses, and an advanced drainage system.
    • Water Management: Discovery of a 3.5–4 feet deep reservoir at Mound 3 indicates advanced water storage systems.
    • Cultural Significance: Artifacts such as pottery, terracotta figurines, beads, and copper tools demonstrate artistic and technological advancement.
    • Trade and Economy: Marine shells and fishhooks point to long-distance trade and local craftsmanship.
    • River Proximity: Located near the paleochannels of the Drishadvati River, a key tributary of the Saraswati River, supporting agriculture and daily life.

    Key Findings

    • Huge Water Reservoir at Mound 3: Layers of siltation confirm water storage practices during the late Harappan period.
    • Artifacts: Items like copper tools, marine shells, and ornate pottery suggest trade and daily life activities.
    • Burials: Skeletons and burial goods provide insights into Harappan rituals and social structures.
    • DNA Analysis: A 4,600-year-old skeleton showed no Steppe ancestry, challenging the Aryan invasion theory.
    • Related Sites: Nearby settlements like Bhirrana and Farmana extend the timeline of the civilisation.

    PYQ:

    [2011] Regarding the Indus Valley Civilization, consider the following statements:

    1. It was predominantly a secular civilization and the religious element, though present, did not dominate the scene,
    2. During this period, cotton was used for manufacturing textiles in India.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Who are the Namdharis?

    Why in the News?

    Punjab CM paid tribute to the Kuka martyrs at a function held at the Namdhari Shaheed Smarak in Malerkotla. The day commemorates the execution of 66 Namdhari Sikhs (Kukas) on January 17 and 18, 1872, by British colonial authorities.  

    Who are the ‘Namdharis’?

    • The Namdharis, also called Kukas, are a Sikh sect founded by Satguru Ram Singh on April 12, 1857, in Ludhiana, Punjab.
    • The name Kuka derives from their distinctive high-pitched recitation of Gurbani (kook in Punjabi means “cry” or “scream”).
    • Social Reforms:
      • Advocated against alcohol consumption, meat eating, and other social vices.
      • Promoted Swadeshi principles, urging people to boycott foreign goods, British services, and educational institutions.
    • The movement served as a precursor to nationwide Non-Cooperation Movement, emphasizing self-reliance and resistance against colonial rule.

    About the Kuka Rebellion

    • The Kuka Rebellion was one of the localized uprisings against British rule after the Rebellion of 1857.
    • The Namdharis actively opposed British policies, particularly cow slaughter, which became a focal point of their resistance.
    • Key events leading to the rebellion:
      • In January 1872, Namdharis, led by Hira Singh and Lehna Singh, clashed with British authorities after a cow slaughter incident in Malerkotla.
      • They attacked the Malaudh Fort in Ludhiana, loyal to the British, but the rebellion was crushed.
    • British Retaliation:
      • The British responded brutally, executing 49 Namdharis on January 17, 1872, and 17 more on January 18, 1872.
      • The Kukas were placed in front of cannons and blown up in a public spectacle to intimidate others.

    Kuka Martyrs’ Day 

    • It is observed on January 17 and 18 each year to honor the 66 Namdharis who were executed in 1872.
    • Significant Stories of Bravery:
      • Bishan Singh (12 years old): Refused to renounce his sect despite being offered his life and was brutally executed after tugging the beard of a British official.
      • Waryam Singh: Courageously used stones to elevate himself to the cannon’s mouth for execution, showing unwavering dedication.
    • Legacy:
      • After the rebellion, Satguru Ram Singh and other Namdhari leaders were exiled to Rangoon.
      • Namdharis believe Ram Singh is still alive and mourn his absence by wearing white.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] The ‘Swadeshi’ and ‘Boycott’ were adopted as methods of struggle for the first time during the:

    (a) Agitation against the Partition of Bengal

    (b) Home Rule Movement

    (c) Non-Cooperation Movement

    (d) Visit of the Simon Commission to India

  • Makaravilakku Festival

    Makaravilakku Festival

    Why in the News?

    The Makaravilakku festival was celebrated at the hill shrine of Sabarimala Ayyappa temple.

    About the Makaravilakku Festival

    • Makaravilakku is a significant annual Hindu festival celebrated at the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.
    • It marks the celestial event of the Sun entering the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makaram Rashi) and coincides with Makara Sankranti.
    • Celebrations are centred at the Sabarimala Temple, nestled in the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Kerala.
    • The event draws millions of devotees who chant “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” in reference to Lord Ayyappa.
    • The festival typically lasts for seven days, beginning on Makara Sankranti.
    • Key Rituals and Events:
      • A symbolic lamp ‘Makaravilakku is lit at Ponnambalamedu, a hill near Sabarimala, on the evening of Makara Sankranti.
      • A divine star Makara Jyothi is believed to appear in the sky, symbolizing the blessings of Lord Ayyappa.
      • Devotees undertake a strict 41-day penance (Vratham) before making the pilgrimage to the temple.

    It’s Significance:

    • The festival signifies the merging of celestial and spiritual energies, celebrating devotion, purity, and self-discipline.
    • The tradition emphasizes equality, with all devotees wearing black or blue attire and carrying the “Irumudi Kettu” (a sacred bundle).

    PYQ:

    [2017] Consider the following pairs:

    Traditions- Communities

    1. Chaliha Sahib Festival- Sindhis

    2. Nanda Raj Jaat Yatra- Gonds

    3. Wari-Warkari- Santhals

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) None of the above

  • Prez invite Republic Day reception set to honour crafts from South India

    Why in the News?

    Rashtrapati Bhavan’s revamped “At Home” reception for the 75th Indian Republic now includes a box of GI Tagged handcrafted items from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh along with the invitation card.

    Prez invite Republic Day reception set to honour crafts from South India

    About the GI Tagged products crafted for the Invittees

    The curated box features a variety of handcrafted items with Geographical Indication (GI) tags and sourced from the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative:

    • Bamboo Weave Box: Decorated with Kalamkari paintings crafted by Nimmalakunta artisans from Andhra Pradesh.
    • Ikat-Pochampalli Cover: Reusable even after dismantling the box.
    • Mysore Ganjifa Fridge Magnet: Inspired by the intricate art seen in traditional Ganjifa playing cards.
    • Kanjeevaram Silk Pouch: Handcrafted in Tamil Nadu.
    • Etikopakka Dolls: Male and female wooden dolls from Andhra Pradesh.
    • Screwpine Leaf Bookmark: Woven by artisans from Kerala.

    What is the One District One Product (ODOP)?

    • ODOP initiative is a flagship scheme designed to foster balanced regional development, enhance local economic potential, and promote employment generation by focusing on a unique product from each district.
    • Originally launched by the Uttar Pradesh Government in January 2018, it was later adopted nationwide by the Central Government.
    • It is managed by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries and coordinated with the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under the Districts as Export Hubs initiative.
    • It is centrally sponsored, with funding shared between the Central and State Governments in a 60:40 ratio.
    • Key Products Under ODOP
      • Handicrafts: Banarasi silk (Varanasi), Chikankari embroidery (Lucknow), and Madhubani painting (Bihar).
      • Agricultural Products: Alphonso mangoes (Ratnagiri), Litchi (Muzaffarpur), and Black rice (Manipur).
      • Processed Foods: Pickles, spices, and traditional sweets.
      • Industrial Goods: Leather products, pottery, and brassware.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status? (2015)

    1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees
    2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma
    3. Tirupathi Laddu

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in Odisha

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister has inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention. The theme for this year was the “Diaspora’s contribution to a Viksit Bharat”.

    About Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD)

    • Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is the flagship event organized by the Ministry of External Affairs to honor the achievements and contributions of Indians living abroad.
    • This celebration is held every two years on January 9, marking the day in 1915 when Mahatma Gandhi, regarded as the greatest Pravasi, returned to India from South Africa to lead the country’s freedom movement.
    • Since 2015, the event has been held biennially, with theme-based conferences organized during the intervening years.
    • The location of the convention changes to showcase the progress and diversity of different regions in India.

    Who are the Girmitiyas?

    • The Girmitiyas were indentured laborers from British India who were transported during the 19th and early 20th centuries to work on plantations in various countries.
    • The term “Girmitiyas” originates from the Indian pronunciation of the English word “agreement”, referencing the contracts they signed.
    • The Girmitiyas were sent to places such as Fiji, Mauritius, Seychelles, Reunion, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, British Guiana (now Guyana), Suriname, Malaysia, and Kenya.
    • These laborers were bound by contracts, called Girmits (agreements), which required them to work for a single employer at a fixed wage for a period of 3 to 5 years.

    Contributions of the Indian Diaspora

    • Economic Contributions: In 2024, India received $129.1 billion in remittances, accounting for 14.3% of global remittances. This inflow has been a vital source of economic support.
    • Professional Contributions: Over 73% of Indian-Americans are employed in high-skill sectors such as STEMM, business, law, and academia. The diaspora acts as a bridge between India and global markets, facilitating skill transfer, trade, and foreign direct investment.
    • Cultural and Soft Power: The Indian diaspora serves as cultural ambassadors, promoting traditions such as Bollywood, Yoga, and festivals like Diwali.
    • Global Presence: The Indian diaspora is spread across the globe, with 31.3 million people residing in countries such as the United States, UAE, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia.

    PYQ:

    [2020] ‘Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries’. Comment with examples.

    [2017] The Indian Diaspora has an important role to play in South East Asian countries economy and society. Appraise the role of Indian Diaspora in South-East Asia in this context.

  • Centre has notified grant of classical language status to Marathi

    Why in the News?

    Months after conferring classical language status to Marathi, the Union Government issued an official notification formalizing the recognition.

    What is the Criteria for declaring a Classical language?

    The Linguistic Experts Committee (LEC) under Sahitya Akademi, established in November 2004, evaluates languages for Classical status based on their historical, cultural, and literary significance. The criteria have evolved over time to ensure a rigorous and inclusive assessment.

    • Original Criteria (2004): Introduced alongside the recognition of Tamil as the first Classical Language:
      • Recorded history or early texts must span over 1,000 years.
      • A body of ancient literature must be regarded as valuable by generations.
      • Literary traditions should be original, not borrowed from another speech community.
    • Revised Criteria (2005): The criteria were revised to include stricter parameters, leading to the recognition of Sanskrit:
      • Antiquity of early texts over 1,500–2,000 years.
      • A significant corpus of ancient literature considered heritage.
      • Distinctiveness of classical language from modern forms.
      • A discontinuity between classical language and its later offshoots.
    • Recent Upgrade (2024): The LEC  refined the criteria further to incorporate broader evidence and diverse literary forms. Five additional languages—Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali—were granted Classical status under these parameters:
      • Early texts/recorded history over 1,500–2,000 years.
      • Ancient literature/texts considered a cultural heritage.
      • Inclusion of knowledge texts, prose, epigraphical evidence, and inscriptions.
      • Classical language distinct from or discontinuous with its modern or evolved forms.
    • Classical languages: Tamil (2004), Sanskrit (2005), Telugu (2008), Kannada (2008), Malayalam (2013), Odia (2014); Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali (2024) along with Marathi.

    What are the significance of Classical Language?

    • Recognizing a classical language preserves its historical roots and unifies cultural heritage.
    • It promotes academic research, translation, and scholarly employment opportunities.
    • Gaining global awareness broadens its use in technology, academia, and global dialogue.
    • Government support and funding ensure sustained preservation, research, and institutional development.

    Historical Significance of Marathi Language

    • Marathi’s 2,000-year history meets the antiquity criterion.
    • Early mentions of “Marathi” in various forms, such as Maharashtri Prakrit, Jain Maharashtri, and Prakrit Marathi, point to its evolution.
    • Over 100 stone inscriptions, including those in the Naneghat Caves (20 BCE), which contain Marathi commands alongside Sanskrit benedictions.
    • Literary milestones: Works from the Yadava period (12th–13th century AD) such as:
      • Leelacharitra: A biography of Chakradhar Swami.
      • Dnyaneshwari: A commentary on the Bhagavad Gita by Sant Dnyaneshwar.
    • The Pathare Committee (2013) and Sahitya Akademi supported Marathi’s case.
      • A massive postcard campaign with 500,000 letters sent to the Prime Minister demanding recognition.
    • Dnyaneshwar Mulay’s Committee addressed administrative hurdles to finalize the proposal in February 2024.

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which one of the following was given classical language status recently?

    (a) Odia

    (b) Konkani

    (c) Bhojpuri

    (d) Assamese

  • Indus Valley Script

    Why in the News?

    In a landmark announcement, Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin offered a $1 million prize to anyone who successfully deciphers the ancient Indus Valley Script.

    Recent Efforts and Theories

    • Bahata Ansumali Mukhopadhyay’s Theory:
      • Suggests the script served commercial purposes, such as trade permits and tax stamps.
      • Highlights its practical use rather than religious or literary functions.
    • Asko Parpola’s Dravidian Hypothesis:
      • Proposes a logo-syllabic system, where pictograms represent words or phonetic rebuses.
      • Links the script to Dravidian languages, challenging Sanskrit-based interpretations.
      • Tamil Nadu’s Keezhadi excavations also draw parallels to IVC practices.

    About the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC)

    • The Harappan Civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, flourished between 2600 BCE and 1900 BCE, with earlier settlements dating back to 3200 BCE.
    • The origins of this civilisation are traced back to Mehrgarh in Balochistan, which dates to 7000 BCE.
    • It is considered one of the three earliest civilizations, alongside Egypt and Mesopotamia.
    • The civilization covered over 1.5 million sq. km, stretching across modern-day India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
    • Remains of the civilization include:
      • Well-planned cities with a grid layout, intersecting streets, and fortified structures.
      • Advanced drainage systems with underground sewers and covered drains, showing a strong emphasis on hygiene.
      • Granaries, warehouses, and dockyards, indicating the presence of structured trade and food storage mechanisms.
      • The discovery of seals made of steatite, often engraved with animals and an un-deciphered script, suggesting a sophisticated administrative system.
      • Craftsmanship in pottery, bead-making, terracotta figurines, metal artefacts, and weaving.
      • Water management systems such as reservoirs, wells, and baths, indicating an advanced understanding of hydraulic engineering.
    • Two ASI archaeologists were credited with the discovery:
      • Daya Ram Sahni excavated Harappa in 1921-22, discovering seals, pottery, and beads.
      • Rakhal Das Banerji began excavating Mohenjo-daro in 1922, finding similar items such as seals and copper objects.
    • John Marshall noticed the similarity between the objects found at Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, despite the sites being 640 km apart.

    What were the Artifacts and Sculptures found at the site?

    • The IVC is renowned for its remarkable artifacts and sculptures, reflecting its advanced culture and daily life.
    • Key finds include seals with animal motifs and inscriptions, terracotta figurines of animals and mother goddesses, and intricately crafted beads and ornaments made of gold, silver, and semi-precious stones.
    • Iconic sculptures like the bronze “Dancing Girl” and steatite “Priest-King” highlight artistic sophistication.
    • Practical items like pottery, toys, and tools demonstrate technological advancement and societal organization.
    • These discoveries shed light on the civilization’s trade, religious beliefs, and aesthetic achievements.

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following characterizes/characterize the people of Indus Valley Civilization?

    1. They possessed great palaces and temples.

    2. They worshipped both male and female deities.

    3. They employed horse-drawn chariots in warfare.

    Select the correct statement/statements using the codes given below.

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1, 2 and 3

    (d) None of the statements given above is correct

  • Communist Party of India (CPI)

    Why in the News?

    December 26, 2024, marks the 100th foundation day of the Communist Party of India (CPI). The CPI has played a pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle, social reforms, and political evolution.

    About the Communist Party of India (CPI)

    • Reasons for Formation:
      • Founded on December 26, 1925, at the Kanpur Conference, inspired by the 1917 Russian Revolution.
      • Earlier efforts included the Tashkent group (1920) led by M.N. Roy and Abani Mukherji, supported by the Comintern (Communist International).
      • Faced early repression through cases like:
        • Kanpur Bolshevik Conspiracy Case (1924).
        • Meerut Conspiracy Case (1929–1933).
      • Dissatisfaction with Gandhian methods and moderate nationalism.
      • Inspiration from the Soviet Revolution (1917) and global socialist movements.
    • Split (1964):
      • Ideological rift during the Cold War over alignment with the Soviet Union or China.
      • Led to the creation of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPI(M).

    Prominent Leaders and Key Contributions

    • Prominent Leaders:
      • M.N. Roy (1920s): Founder of the Tashkent group; advocated socialism and anti-colonialism.
      • Abani Mukherji (1920s): Drafted the Indian Communist Manifesto.
      • S.A. Dange (1924): Founding CPI member; labour leader implicated in the Kanpur Conspiracy Case.
      • Muzaffar Ahmed (1920s): Mobilized workers and peasants; key figure in AITUC (1920).
      • Shaukat Usmani (1920s–1930s) and M. Singaravelu (1925): Early CPI activists.
    • Key Contributions:
      • Demand for Poorna Swaraj (1927):
        • Advocated for complete independence, influencing the Indian National Congress (INC).
      • Workers and Peasants Movements (1920s–1950s):
        • Mobilized workers through AITUC (1920) and peasants through All India Kisan Sabha (1936).
        • Led uprisings like the Telangana Rebellion (1946–1951).
      • Opposition to British Rule (1920s–1947):
        • Organized strikes and protests during the Quit India Movement (1942).
    • Achievements of CPI
      • In the First Lok Sabha (1952–57), CPI was the single largest opposition party.
      • In 1957, CPI won the state elections in Kerala, becoming the first democratically elected communist government in independent India.
    Note: The All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), India’s oldest trade union federation, was founded in 1920 by Lala Lajpat Rai and others in Bombay to represent India at the ILO (International Labour Organisation).

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following events:

    1. The first democratically elected communist party government was formed in a State in India.
    2. India’s then largest bank, ‘Imperial Bank of India’, was renamed ‘State Bank of India’.
    3. Air India was nationalised and became the national carrier.
    4. Goa became a part of independent India.

    Which of the following is the correct chronological sequence of the above events?

    (a) 4 – 1 – 2 – 3

    (b) 3 – 2 – 1 – 4

    (c) 4 – 2 – 1 – 3

    (d) 3 – 1 – 2 – 4