Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Inaugurates Kala Utsav 2023, Emphasizes on Creative Learning

New Delhi: The vibrant celebration of artistic talent and cultural diversity unfolded today as Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, graced the inaugural ceremony of Kala Utsav 2023 as the Chief Guest. Minister of State for Education, Smt. Annpurna Devi, joined the event as the Guest of Honour, along with other dignitaries, including Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education, Shri Sanjay Kumar.

The Kala Utsav, aimed at nurturing the creative and artistic abilities of school students, was inaugurated by Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, who underscored its significance in connecting India’s cultural diversity. He highlighted its alignment with the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and expressed confidence in the talent and potential of India’s children.

During his address, Shri Pradhan emphasized the transformative role of the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) in mainstreaming play-based learning, sports, arts, crafts, and other creative pursuits. He stressed that NEP 2020 is geared towards the all-round development of children, shaping them into leaders of the 21st century.

The Minister urged the Ministry of Education to expand Kala Utsav’s reach to all schools across the country, integrating children’s participation into the credit framework. Shri Pradhan reiterated the importance of providing a broad platform to every child based on their interests and talents for building a developed India.

In a lively interaction with the youth participants, Shri Pradhan reminded them of their responsibilities in the coming 25 years, contributing to the development of Viksit Bharat. He highlighted the unique features of NEP 2020, incorporating experiential learning through sports, art, culture, hackathons, and more, fostering critical thinking and human values.

Smt. Annpurna Devi expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for introducing art-integrated learning in NEP 2020. She emphasized that traditional art forms, toys, and games included in Kala Utsav would help children thrive and contribute to the nation.

Shri Sanjay Kumar highlighted the comprehensive and all-round development of students, emphasizing the integration of humanities, science, sports, and arts as per the true spirit of NEP. He praised Kala Utsav for providing a platform for children to engage with India’s rich cultural diversity.

Kala Utsav 2023, organized by the Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education, and the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), will showcase performances in ten art forms. Over 700 students from 36 States and Union Territories, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti will participate, highlighting India’s artistic richness.

The event is scheduled from January 9 to January 12, 2024, at National Bal Bhavan and the Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, New Delhi.