Daily Current Affairs : 18-August-2023
In a significant step towards preserving cultural heritage and advancing education, Union Ministers of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, and Finance & Corporate Affairs launched the ‘Kuwi and Desia’ books in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. These books, developed in collaboration with the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), the Central University of Odisha, and the Department of Posts, are aimed at nurturing the educational foundation and cultural identity of the tribal community in Odisha’s Koraput district.
The Essence of ‘Kuwi and Desia’ Books
The ‘Kuwi Primer’ and ‘Desia Primer’ are tailored educational resources designed for children who speak the Kuwi and Desia tribal languages, prevalent in the undivided Koraput district. The primary objective of these books is twofold: to provide children with a strong educational base and to safeguard and foster the rich cultural and linguistic heritage of the tribal communities in Odisha.
Nurturing Heritage Through ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’
As part of the initiative, the ministers paid a visit to the mesmerizing ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ sand art created by renowned artist Shri Sudarshan Patnaik at Puri Beach. The significance of this art lies in its embodiment of the deep connection between the people and the land. During the visit, the ministers participated in several activities that reflected their commitment to honoring the legacy of Martyr Jayee Rajguru and preserving the cultural ethos of the land.
Honoring Martyr Jayee Rajguru’s Legacy
Jayee Rajguru, an illustrious freedom fighter, holds a prominent place in India’s struggle for independence. Born in 1739 in Biraharekrushnapur near Puri, Odisha, he was among the earliest warriors to stand up against the oppressive rule of the British Empire. He hailed from a lineage of the Rajguru family, who served as advisors to the royal family of Khordha.
At the age of 41, he was appointed as the Rajguru by King Dibyasingha Dev II, and this position bestowed upon him both political and spiritual responsibilities. With the East India Company’s expansionist ambitions infringing upon the sovereignty of Khordha, Jayee Rajguru’s steadfast resistance came to the forefront. This confrontation demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the land’s autonomy and freedom.
A Tribute that Transcends Time
In memory of Martyr Jayee Rajguru, the ministers embarked on the ‘Dedication of Shilaphalakam’ and ‘Vasudha Vandan’ initiative. This initiative saw the installation of a memorial plaque dedicated to the martyrs, symbolizing the sacrifices made for the land’s freedom. Additionally, ministers gathered soil and rice in an ‘amrit kalash’ from Biraharekrushnapur, Jayee Rajguru’s birthplace, to create an ‘Amrit Vatika’ in Delhi—a living tribute to the hero’s legacy.
Important Points:
‘Kuwi and Desia’ Books:
- Developed by NCERT, Central University of Odisha, and Department of Posts.
- Tailored for children speaking Kuwi and Desia tribal languages in Koraput district.
- Goals: Strong educational foundation and safeguarding cultural heritage.
Nurturing Heritage Through ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’:
- Ministers visited ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ sand art by Sudarshan Patnaik at Puri Beach.
- Symbolized the deep connection between people and land.
- Activities to honor Martyr Jayee Rajguru and preserve cultural ethos.
Honoring Martyr Jayee Rajguru’s Legacy:
- Jayee Rajguru: Early freedom fighter against British rule.
- Born in 1739 in Biraharekrushnapur near Puri, Odisha.
- Part of Rajguru family, advisors to royal family of Khordha.
- Appointed Rajguru at 41, held political and spiritual responsibilities.
- Confrontation with East India Company’s expansionist ambitions.
A Tribute that Transcends Time:
- Ministers initiated ‘Dedication of Shilaphalakam’ and ‘Vasudha Vandan’ initiative.
- Memorial plaque installation for martyrs’ memory.
- Gathering soil and rice for ‘Amrit Vatika’ in Delhi from Jayee Rajguru’s birthplace.
Why In News
Union Ministers of Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Finance & Corporate Affairs came together in a momentous event at Bhubaneswar in Odisha to unveil the ‘Kuwi and Desia’ books. This initiative not only seeks to establish a robust educational base but also endeavors to safeguard and nurture the rich cultural, linguistic heritage, and distinct identity of Odisha’s tribal communities.
MCQs about ‘Kuwi and Desia’ Books Launch
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What is the main goal of the ‘Kuwi and Desia’ books launched in Odisha?
A. Promotion of modern languages
B. Fostering cultural heritage and education
C. Teaching international languages
D. Developing advanced technology skills
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Who was Martyr Jayee Rajguru?
A. A renowned artist from Puri
B. A tribal leader in Koraput district
C. An early freedom fighter against British rule
D. A modern politician in Odisha
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What is the significance of the ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ sand art at Puri Beach?
A. It promotes tourism in Puri
B. It depicts a historical battle
C. It symbolizes the connection between people and land
D. It showcases modern art techniques
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Why did Ministers collect soil and rice in an ‘amrit kalash’ from Biraharekrushnapur?
A. To create an art installation
B. To distribute among villagers
C. To offer as a tribute to Jayee Rajguru
D. To use in a traditional cooking ceremony
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