The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) on Monday inked an agreement with the administration of Andaman and Nicobar Islands for a strategic partnership to jointly promote the rich cultural heritage of the islands.
"Some international maps don't even highlight the fact that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a part of India. This cultural integration will promote awareness about the islands," ICCR Director General C. Rajasekhar said.
The ICCR would send abroad artistes from the islands and would also arrange international performers, artistes, litterateurs etc. to visit the islands.
Andaman and Nicobar culture secretary Ankita Mishra Bundela said she was "happy to associate with ICCR" and that it should have happened much earlier.
"I would like to thank ICCR for their proactive stand to showcase our art and culture which is not mainstream. The islands are a mini India that celebrates festivals like monsoon festival, beach festival, food festival etc.," Bundela said.
She also sought ICCR's help in hosting a literary festival in future.
The ICCR is engaged in promoting India's culture abroad through various activities in the fields of performing arts, visual arts, academic conferences, establishing chairs of India studies in foreign institutions and hosting eminent personalities in India.
--IANS
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