SPEECH OF HON’BLE GOVERNOR PUNJAB AND ADMINISTRATOR, UT CHANDIGARH,SHRI BANWARILAL PUROHIT ON THE OCCASION OF SESSION ON ARTS AND CULTURE: AN INTEGRAL ELEMENT IN SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVLEOPMENT AT CII ON MARCH 3, 2023

It has always been exhilarating to be at programs and exhibitions organised by CII. But, today’s session evoked a special interest since the  theme chosen is quite different from what the industry associations normally take up - “Arts and Culture : An Integral Element in Socio-Economic Development”. 
Culture plays an important role in the development of any nation. It represents a set of shared attitudes, values, goals and practices. Culture and creativity manifest themselves in almost all economic, social and other activities. A country as diverse as India is symbolized by the plurality of its culture. India has one of the world’s largest collections of songs, music, dance, theatre, folk traditions, performing arts, rites and rituals, paintings and writings that are known, as the ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’ of humanity.
Similarly, Punjab has one of the most ancient and diversified cultures on the globe. Punjabi poetry, philosophy, spirituality, education, artwork, music, food,  military warfare, architecture, traditions, values, and history all reflect this diversity and distinctiveness. It’s difficult to overlook the compassion and zeal displayed in the Punjabi way of life. Replete with a rich history of art and culture, the State and its Capital has been patronised by the Royalty of Patiala, Kapurthala, and the Jind Gharanas.
Talking of Chandigarh, it  is a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. When it comes to culture, this city reflects a blend of different cultures within the country. Chandigarh is a cosmopolitan city that has always encouraged and welcomed various diverse groups. We have always believed in learning from other cultures, and there is no dearth of opportunities for people from all walks of life.
It is said that Chandigarh is the cultural capital of the region. Many artists and writers live in the city. The frequently held exhibitions, and performances by singers, dancers, musicians and actors have inculcated among city residents a desire for the best in performing visual and plastic arts besides literary encounters.  
Many of you must be aware that while planning for the city, Le Corbusier earmarked a portion of Sector 10 as the Cultural Complex which would include an Audio-Visual Training Institute, a Museum, an Art Gallery. 
At present there is a Government College of arts, the Government Museum and Art Gallery along with a separate ‘Pavilion for Temporary Exhibitions’. Then there are Lalit Kala, Sahitya and Sageet Natak Academies devoted to art, literature, music and dance/drama respectively. They conduct numerous lectures, exhibitions, performances and festivals throughout the year. 
There is also the Pracheen Kala Kendra offering degree courses in Hindustani vocal and instrumental music, Kathak and Bharatnatyam among the Indian Classical dance and also folk dances and song. The Pracheen Kala Kendra organises a week long festival of music and dance ever year.  
Multiple activities at Tagore Theatre are well known to all. We are also coming up with an Auditorium in Kalagram. A multipurpose hall has also been proposed which can be utilised as display gallery, a workshop place and for small cultural sittings.
Friends, 
Chandigarh is considered as one of the most liveable cities in India.  But I feel that for  Chandigarh to truly become the most liveable city, the art and cultural landscape of the city plays a vital role and needs a big boost.
I as the Chairman of North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC) am focussed on the endeavour of preserving, protecting and disseminating the rich cultural heritage of India.
You would be happy to know that we at NZCC have started two Life Time Achievement Awards worth Rs. 5 lacs each for folk artists, annually. We are increasing are activities and intend holding more programmes in collaboration with reputed institutions involved in cultural activities. The Industrialists, of course, can also chip in!
These days, Business models are evolving with startups playing a vital role and Chandigarh has been a breeding ground for many successful start-ups creating history with innovative solutions. Art start-ups are helping artists sell their work online, and also help to connect people who love art with artists.
I would urge the industry to encourage and promote initiatives for the upliftment of the art and crafts sector. There are various opportunities present in this sector.
Infact, Chandigarh is brimming with opportunities and Administration that is open to new ideas.
Friends, 
Evidence from economically advanced world cities suggests that Art and Culture has a major role to play in propagating local economic development.
Global cultural power houses like Paris, Los Angeles, Sydney, London, Amsterdam etc. have been successful in deriving tremendous economic benefit from their respective art and culture industries. This includes significant contribution to employment and GDP.
According to a Published Report, Tourist footfall in Paris is 130% of its population and it generates 12.88 billion Dollars from foreign tourists alone!
Thriving tourism and cultural destinations are growing out of once latent artistic and cultural resources and contributing to economic sustainability in many region.
Cultural activities attract tourists and spur the creation of ancillary facilities such as restaurants, hotels, and the services needed to support them. Cultural facilities and events enhance property values, tax resources and overall profitability for communities. In doing so, the arts become a direct contributor to urban and rural revitalisation.
Indian cities have been blessed with diverse and vast cultural heritage. World Heritage sites, art galleries, music concerts, theatres etc are part of this diverse cultural invention.
We know that Art & Culture is intrinsically woven into India’s identity. It contributes to India’s GDP by generating both direct and indirect employment through handmade crafts and arts, unique only to our Country. The potential in this sector is immense. 
I believe that to build  an enabling and engaged cohort for Art and Culture, a holistic approach  is intrinsic and Public-Private partnership is the keyword.
But, I feel there is lack of integration. Various stakeholders such as government, civic bodies, planners, corporations, private players, citizens, and wider community of artists  are working in silos which inhibits the collaboration.
Since you are holding this session today, I hope you will come up with ways and means for seamless alignment. Play participatory role in Culture Driven Campaigns like once famous “Aamchi Mumbai”, & “MP Gajab Hai, Sabse Ajab Hai” campaigns.
Create Cultural platforms, support cultural diversity, sustainable employment for artists and do support the art projects!
Come up with “outside-the-box” marketing ideas to generate greater mileage for our arts and culture .
Arts and cultural activities can draw crowds from within and around the community.  Increasing the number of visitors as well as enhancing  resident participation would help  in building economic and social capital.
All the best in your endeavours!
Thank you,
Jai Hind.