United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization was set up on 4 November 1946. The objectives of UNESCO are to promote peace and security in the world by promoting cooperation among various nations through education, science, and cultural exchange. It is headquartered in Paris. In this article, we have discussed India’s Association with UNESCO.
India’s Association with UNESCO
- India has been a member of UNESCO since its beginning in 1946.
- In 1949, a National Commission for Cooperation with UNESCO was set by the government of India.
- This consisted of five sub-committees—Education, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Culture and Communication.
- The National Commission promotes the programmes of UNESCO and helps send people to participate in international conferences, seminars and workshops organized by UNESCO.
- UNESCO provides funds and various expert services to protect and maintain several historical monuments like the Taj Mahal.
Functions of UNESCO in Education
- To work for eradication of illiteracy by encouraging distance education and open school systems.
- To stress upon the education of women and girls.
- To finance the education of disabled children.
- To provide grants and fellowships to teachers and scholars and to promote international understanding through education.
- To organize book fairs and festivals at national and international levels.
- To promote education as an instrument for international understanding.
Functions of UNESCO in Science and Scientific Activities
- UNESCO organizes seminars and conferences of scientists. Courier is the official monthly magazine of UNESCO.
- It promotes research studies in Geology, Mathematics, Physics and Oceanography.
- It encourages the study of social sciences to focus attention on combating all forms of discrimination.
- It helps in correcting imbalance in the existing scientific and technological manpower.
Functions of UNESCO in Communication
It helps the developing and underdeveloped countries in developing communication. It improves the quality of the Press, films, and video devices. It upholds the freedom of the press and media.
Functions of UNESCO in Preservation of Cultural Heritage
- It provides finance, technical advice and equipment for the preservation of monuments and other important works of art.
- It provides encouragement to artistic creations in literature and fine arts.
- It works towards the cultural development through the medium of fine arts.
- It sends cultural missions to various countries. This helps in promoting peace and prosperity.
Also, Read 3 Most Important Agencies of the United Nations