The Defense Ministry has suggested a rotational plan, in which each state and union territory will be given a chance to present its tableau once in a three-year cycle.
In recent years, the selection of tableaux for the Republic Day parade has been in controversy, with complaints from various states about their exclusion of representation. The Ministry of Defense has responded to these concerns by proposing a comprehensive rollover scheme to address this issue.
proposal for equitable distribution
Official sources say the Defense Ministry has proposed a rollover scheme to give each state and Union Territory (UT) an opportunity to display their tableaux within a three-year cycle. Every year around 15 tableaux are selected for the Republic Day Parade, making it challenging to include every state every year. The proposed scheme aims to ensure equitable distribution and fair representation for all.
three year memorandum of understanding
Discussions were held under the chairmanship of the Defense Secretary with the Resident Commissioners of various States and Union Territories. A three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been proposed to facilitate the implementation of the rollover scheme. So far, 28 states have signed the draft agreement.
Fast-tracking partnerships
To expedite the participation process, states and union territories were already contacted for their willingness to participate in the Republic Day parade for the next three years (2024, 2025 and 2026). Most of the States/UTs have shown positive response to the proposed scheme and expressed their willingness for all the three years.
encourage new talent
The Ministry of Culture has played a role in encouraging new and fresh talent by empaneling 30 agencies for the design and construction of tableaux. These agencies were selected through an open selection process, and States/UTs were advised to engage them by following due procedures.
Selection process and Bharat Parv
After four rounds of meetings, 16 states and union territories were selected for the 2024 Republic Day parade. However, states that did not secure a venue were invited to display their tableaus at the Bharat Parv held at the Red Fort from January 23 to 31, 2024. The list highlights the inclusion and notable exclusions of tableaux from opposition-ruled states.
Opposition's claims and Centre's response
Recent criticisms from Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah over the non-inclusion of their state's tableaux have sparked debate. The Defense Ministry, in its written reply to Parliament, stressed on the well-established system for tableau selection, consisting of a committee of eminent persons from various artistic fields.
Expert Committee and finalizing the theme
The Defense Ministry has set up an expert committee of artists and Padma awardees to finalize the theme and aesthetics for the tableau of the Republic Day parade. This committee works independently, there is no involvement of the government, minister or secretary in it.
Important questions related to exam
1. What is the primary objective of the proposed rollover scheme for the tableau of the Republic Day Parade?
A) To ensure equitable distribution
B) To exclude some states
C) Giving priority to Union Territories
2. What is the time frame covered by the proposed three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)?
A) 2023-2025
B) 2024-2026
C) 2022-2024
3. How many agencies were empaneled by the Culture Ministry for the design and construction of tableaux?
A) 20
B) 25
C) 30
Please share your feedback in the comments section.